Carnitine Acylcarnitine Profile (Organic Acids)
This test measures the levels of various fatty acid compounds attached to carnitine in your blood. It helps identify metabolic disorders related to how your body breaks down fats.
["Assists in diagnosing conditions affecting fat metabolism and energy production."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53238-2
- Short code
- Isovaleryl+MeButyrylcarn/C0 DBS-sRto
- Synonyms
- Isovaleryl+MeButyrylcarn/C0 DBS-sRto
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 unexplained muscle weakness, fatigue, rapid breathing, or signs of metabolic issues (e.g., vomiting, seizures). It’s also used in newborn screening for certain inherited disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re a newborn, a heel prick may be used. Avoid fasting unless instructed by your provider.
What the Test Results Mean
Abnormal results may indicate metabolic disorders, such as medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD) deficiency or other carnitine-related conditions. Your doctor will discuss findings with you based on your symptoms and medical history.
Common Conditions Linked to This Test
This test is particularly useful for diagnosing inherited metabolic disorders that disrupt fat metabolism, such as carnitine palmitoyltransferase II (CPT II) deficiency or mitochondrial disorders.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Early identification of metabolic disorders through this test can lead to timely interventions, such as dietary changes, medication, or special therapies. Untreated conditions may cause long-term health complications, including organ damage or developmental delays in children.
Short name
Carnitine Acylcarnitine Screen
Frequently asked questions
What does a ‘positive’ or abnormal result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or lifestyle changes 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