Serum or plasma concentration of free fatty acids (medium-chain and long-chain)
This test measures the levels of free fatty acids in your blood, which are important energy sources for your body. They play a key role in metabolism and can be influenced by diet, exercise, and certain medical conditions.
["Free fatty acids help your body use energy efficiently and support normal bodily functions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 11903-2
- Short code
- GA from BPD.Hansmann85
- Synonyms
- GA from BPD.Hansmann85
- 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-bpd-hansmann
- 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 order this test to evaluate metabolic health, monitor conditions like diabetes or thyroid disorders, assess nutritional status, or check for signs of fatty acid metabolism issues. It can also help diagnose or manage conditions such as hyperlipidemia, liver disease, or certain hormonal imbalances.
What to Expect Before the Test
You may need to fast for a few hours before the test, depending on your provider’s instructions. Avoid smoking and consuming alcohol for the recommended period. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.
During the Blood Draw
A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to collect a blood sample. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process is quick and usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort. You can sit or lie down comfortably during the procedure.
What the Results Mean
Results help your healthcare provider understand how your body is processing fats. Abnormal levels might indicate problems with fat metabolism, energy production, or underlying health conditions that need further investigation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated free fatty acid levels can signal conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, severe liver disease, or hormonal imbalances. Lower-than-expected levels may suggest malabsorption issues, malnutrition, or certain metabolic disorders. Regular monitoring can help manage conditions like metabolic syndrome or heart disease.
Short name
Free Fatty Acids (FFA)
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
Does diet affect my FFA levels?
Can I take medications before the 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