Serum or plasma concentration of free fatty acids (specifically medium-chain triglycerides)
This test measures the amount of medium-chain triglycerides (fatty acids with 6–12 carbon atoms) in your blood, often checked in connection with metabolic or digestive health evaluations.
["Assesses fat metabolism and may help diagnose conditions like medium-chain triglyceride disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 28373-9
- Short code
- FRIGHTENEDOVERLITTLECONTROL
- Synonyms
- —
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- reported-living-hiv
- 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 request this test if you have symptoms or risk factors for metabolic disorders, such as unexplained weight changes, digestive issues, or suspected medium-chain triglyceride-related conditions. It can also be part of broader evaluations for genetic or metabolic diseases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.
How the Test Works
A small sample of blood is collected from a vein in your arm. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to measure the concentration of medium-chain triglycerides in your serum or plasma.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to reference ranges for healthy individuals. Elevated levels may indicate metabolic issues, while lower levels could suggest deficiencies or other underlying conditions. Your provider will discuss these findings in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Free medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) in serum/plasma
Frequently asked questions
This test is primarily used to identify medium-chain triglyceride-related metabolic disorders, such as medium-chain triglyceride lipase deficiency, or to monitor fat metabolism in patients with known conditions like cystic fibrosis or mitochondrial disorders.
How often should I get this test? This test is usually ordered as needed, depending on your symptoms or medical condition. Your provider will determine the frequency based on your specific situation.
Can I take this test at home? No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. Home testing for this specific analyte is not available.
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