Serum Free Fatty Acid (FFAs) Profile (Qualitative or Quantitative Measurement)
This test measures levels of free fatty acids in your blood, which are important fats released from fat cells to provide energy. FFAs play a key role in metabolism and can be influenced by diet, exercise, and certain medical conditions.
["FFAs help your body use energy efficiently and support normal bodily functions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73385-7
- Short code
- Fenofibrate ind plt IgG SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- Fenofibrate ind plt IgG SerPl Ql FC
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 82784
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unusual fatigue, rapid breathing, or if they suspect conditions affecting fat metabolism, such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or liver/kidney issues. It may also be part of monitoring for metabolic syndrome or after certain treatments.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves drawing blood. Wear a loose shirt for easy access to your arm. If you’re on medications that affect fats (like certain cholesterol drugs), let your provider know.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood will be sent to a lab for analysis. The process takes about 15 minutes, and you may feel a slight pinch but no lasting discomfort.
What the Results Mean
Results may be qualitative (yes/no presence) or quantitative (exact levels), depending on the test’s purpose. Elevated FFAs could signal metabolic stress, while very low levels might indicate malabsorption or other metabolic issues. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Free Fatty Acids (FFAs) Test
Frequently asked questions
FFAs are critical for energy production and signaling in the body. Abnormal levels can indicate metabolic disorders, such as uncontrolled diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, or liver/kidney disease. They may also be monitored in patients on certain medications or undergoing treatments affecting fat metabolism.
What causes free fatty acids to be tested?
How long does it take to get results from 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