Serum or plasma free fatty acid concentration (qualitative screening)
This test measures the presence of free fatty acids in your blood, which are important energy sources for your body. Free fatty acids can rise when your body burns fat for fuel, often seen in conditions like starvation, diabetes, or metabolic stress.
["Free fatty acids help your body manage energy levels and fat metabolism; abnormal levels may signal underlying health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 33074-6
- Short code
- GA from AC.Lessoway98
- Synonyms
- GA from AC.Lessoway98
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- us-estimated-from-ac-lessoway
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this screening test to assess metabolic health, especially if you have symptoms like unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or signs of poor nutrient absorption. It can also help monitor conditions affecting fat metabolism or energy production.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this screening. You may fast for 8–12 hours before testing if instructed, but this is not always required for qualitative screening. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking to your appointment.
What Happens During the Test?
A small blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then analyzed to detect the presence of free fatty acids using a qualitative method, which provides a general indication rather than a precise measurement.
What Are the Possible Results?
Since this is a screening test, results are qualitative (positive or negative) rather than numerical. A positive result may prompt further testing or evaluation of your metabolic health, depending on your symptoms and medical history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated free fatty acids can occur in conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, starvation, or severe illness, where the body relies heavily on fat for energy. Low levels may suggest malabsorption issues or other metabolic disorders. This screening helps identify potential red flags for deeper investigation.
Short name
FFA Screen (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive screening result mean?
Will I need to fast before this test?
Can I take my usual medications 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