Carnitine Acylcarnitine Profile (Organic Acids) – Serum/Plasma
This test measures levels of specific organic acids in your blood, which can help identify metabolic disorders or conditions affecting how your body processes fats and amino acids.
["Helps diagnose rare genetic disorders linked to fat metabolism or amino acid breakdown."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 88007-0
- Short code
- Isovaleryl+MeButyrylcarn/C0 SerPl-sRto
- Synonyms
- Isovaleryl+MeButyrylcarn/C0 SerPl-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 doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained muscle weakness, fatigue, developmental delays in children, or if you have a family history of metabolic disorders. It’s also used to monitor treatment progress in certain conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your doctor specifies it. Bring any medications you’re taking, as some may affect results.
How the Test Works
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then analyzed using advanced techniques to detect and measure specific organic acids, including isovalerylcarnitine and butyrylcarnitine.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is particularly useful for diagnosing conditions like medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD) deficiency, glutaric aciduria type 1, or other inherited metabolic disorders that disrupt fat metabolism.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated or abnormal levels of certain organic acids in your blood can signal metabolic disorders that require immediate medical attention. Early detection allows for timely interventions, such as dietary changes or enzyme replacement therapies, to prevent complications like liver damage, neurological issues, or life-threatening crises.
Short name
Organic Acids Profile
Frequently asked questions
What Does This Test Measure?
How Long Will Results Take?
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