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Pentanoate (Valerate) in Serum or Plasma by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of pentanoate (valerate), a short-chain fatty acid, in your blood. It may be used to assess metabolic or digestive health, especially in conditions affecting fat metabolism or gut function.

Quick summary

["Pentanoate levels can help diagnose or monitor metabolic disorders or gut-related conditions."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
78837-2
Short code
JWH-018 pentanoate CtO Ur Cfm-mCnc
Synonyms
JWH-018 pentanoate CtO Ur Cfm-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
confirm
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Does This Test Measure?

Pentanoate (valerate) is a naturally occurring fatty acid produced by gut bacteria and sometimes by the body’s own metabolism. Your test result reflects the concentration of this compound in your blood plasma or serum. This measurement can be part of broader evaluations for conditions involving abnormal fat metabolism, such as certain gastrointestinal disorders or metabolic syndromes.

Why Might This Test Be Ordered?

Your healthcare provider may request this test if you have symptoms or conditions linked to altered fatty acid metabolism, such as unexplained weight changes, digestive issues, or metabolic disorders. It may also be used in research or specialized clinical settings to study gut health or metabolic pathways.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is processed to separate plasma or serum, which is then analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). This method separates and identifies the fatty acids present, including pentanoate, with high precision.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are expressed as the mass concentration of pentanoate in your blood (e.g., micrograms per milliliter). While specific reference ranges vary by lab, abnormal results may indicate conditions affecting fat metabolism or gut function, prompting further evaluation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Valerate Levels

Frequently asked questions

What Does an Abnormal Result Mean?
Elevated pentanoate levels may suggest conditions like short-chain fatty acid disorders, certain gastrointestinal diseases, or metabolic imbalances. Lower-than-expected levels could indicate metabolic challenges or deficiencies in fat processing. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider, as interpretation depends on your overall health and symptoms.
How Often Should This Test Be Done?
This test is typically ordered as part of a specific clinical evaluation, not as a routine screening. Your provider will determine how often it should be repeated based on your diagnosis and treatment plan.
What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
Abnormal pentanoate levels may result from metabolic disorders, gastrointestinal diseases (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease), or medications affecting fat metabolism. Lifestyle factors, such as diet or gut health, can also influence these results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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