Serum or plasma free fatty acid concentration (qualitative or semi-quantitative screening)
This test measures levels of free fatty acids in your blood, which are important for energy production and metabolism. Free fatty acids are released from fats stored in your body when energy is needed.
["Free fatty acids help your body use fat for fuel, especially during fasting or exercise."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 11945-3
- Short code
- GA from UL.Merz.87
- Synonyms
- GA from UL.Merz.87
- 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-ulna-length-merz
- 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 rapid heartbeat, which could indicate conditions affecting fat metabolism or energy use. It may also be used to monitor metabolic disorders or assess responses to certain treatments.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test if it involves drawing blood. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay near the testing site for a short time.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a small pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results are qualitative or semi-quantitative, meaning they may indicate whether levels are elevated, low, or within a general range. Your provider will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated free fatty acid levels can be associated with conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, severe infections, or certain metabolic disorders. Low levels might suggest malabsorption issues or other metabolic disturbances. This test can help diagnose or monitor conditions affecting fat metabolism and energy production.
Short name
Free Fatty Acids (FFA) Screening
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive or abnormal result mean?
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
How long will it take to get my results?
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