Fatty Acid Profile (Long Chain Fatty Acids) in Serum
This test measures levels of long-chain fatty acids in your blood serum, which can help assess metabolic health, lipid processing, or potential genetic conditions affecting fat metabolism.
["Long-chain fatty acids are critical for energy production and cell function; abnormal levels may signal metabolic disorders or genetic conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 111444-6
- Short code
- Fat Msmt Stl
- Synonyms
- Fat Msmt Stl
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- stool
- Container
- Clean container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 g
- Stability
- Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained fatigue, muscle weakness, or if they suspect conditions such as fatty acid oxidation disorders, mitochondrial diseases, or other metabolic syndromes. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for unexplained lipid abnormalities or genetic testing.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw if your lab requires it. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.
What the Test Involves
A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The sample is collected in a special tube and sent to the lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results show the concentration of specific long-chain fatty acids in your serum. Abnormal patterns may indicate metabolic dysfunction, but interpretation depends on clinical context and comparison to your symptoms or family history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated or altered levels of long-chain fatty acids can signal metabolic disorders, such as carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT) deficiencies or other fatty acid oxidation defects. These conditions may affect energy production, muscle function, or growth. Your provider will correlate results with your symptoms and medical history to guide diagnosis or treatment planning.
Short name
Long Chain Fatty Acids (LCFA) Serum
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal fatty acid levels?
How long will I need to wait for results?
Can I eat or drink before 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