Hexanoylcarnitine in serum/plasma (Carnitine fatty acid conjugate)
This test measures a specific type of carnitine linked to a six-carbon fatty acid, which helps your body break down fats for energy. It’s often part of a broader evaluation for metabolic or genetic conditions.
["This test helps assess fat metabolism and identify potential genetic or metabolic disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 54296-9
- Short code
- Hexanoylcarn CSF-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Hexanoylcarn CSF-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like muscle weakness, fatigue, or unexplained health issues that could be linked to how your body processes fats. It may also be part of a screening for inherited metabolic disorders, especially in newborns or those with a family history of such conditions.
What Does the Test Measure?
Hexanoylcarnitine is a carnitine compound that carries medium-chain fatty acids into your cells for energy production. Abnormal levels can indicate problems with fatty acid metabolism, which may affect energy, muscle function, or other bodily processes.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is processed to separate serum or plasma, which is then analyzed using a specialized laboratory technique to measure hexanoylcarnitine levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically required, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test if instructed by your provider. Avoid strenuous activity or consuming certain medications that could affect results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated levels of hexanoylcarnitine may suggest conditions like carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT) deficiencies or other metabolic disorders that impair fat metabolism. Low levels could indicate deficiencies in carnitine or other metabolic issues. This test is particularly useful in diagnosing inherited metabolic diseases that can impact growth, energy, and organ function.
Short name
Hexanoylcarnitine
Frequently asked questions
What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Can Diet or Medications Affect 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