Eicosanoic Acid in Cerebrospinal Fluid (Substance Concentration)
This test measures the amount of eicosanoic acid, a fatty acid found in your cerebrospinal fluid (the fluid surrounding your brain and spinal cord). It may be checked to help assess certain metabolic or inflammatory conditions.
["Eicosanoic acid in CSF can provide insights into metabolic or inflammatory processes in the central nervous system."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53466-9
- Short code
- Eicosanoylcarn CSF-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Eicosanoylcarn CSF-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if they suspect conditions like metabolic disorders, certain neurological diseases, or abnormalities in fat metabolism within the brain. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for unexplained symptoms such as headaches, seizures, or cognitive changes.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically required for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your lumbar spine to collect a sample of cerebrospinal fluid. This is usually done in a hospital or clinic setting and may cause mild discomfort but is generally well-tolerated.
What the Results Mean
Eicosanoic acid levels in CSF can vary based on underlying health conditions, diet, and other factors. While specific reference ranges aren’t universally defined for this test, elevated or abnormal levels might suggest metabolic issues, fatty acid disorders, or other neurological concerns that need further evaluation.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test may be used to monitor conditions related to abnormal fat metabolism, such as certain inherited disorders affecting fatty acid breakdown. It can also be part of investigations into inflammatory or metabolic diseases affecting the central nervous system.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
CSF Eicosanoic Acid
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low eicosanoic acid level in CSF typically indicate?
How often is this test repeated if results are abnormal?
Is there any dietary or lifestyle change I should make before or after this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy