Octanoylcarnitine (C8-Carnitine) in Serum/Plasma
This test measures the amount of octanoylcarnitine, a type of carnitine linked to fatty acid metabolism, in your blood.
["Octanoylcarnitine helps assess how well your body breaks down fats for energy."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 88014-6
- Short code
- Octanoylcarn/C0 DBS-sRto
- Synonyms
- Octanoylcarn/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
What Is Octanoylcarnitine?
Carnitines are compounds that help transport fatty acids into your mitochondria, where they’re used for energy. Octanoylcarnitine is one of several carnitine forms detected in blood tests. Elevated levels may indicate impaired fatty acid metabolism, while lower levels could suggest genetic or metabolic disorders affecting carnitine recycling.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like muscle weakness, fatigue, or unexplained metabolic issues. It’s also used in diagnosing conditions like medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD) deficiency or other inherited metabolic disorders. Sometimes, it’s part of a broader evaluation for unexplained liver, kidney, or heart problems.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed in a lab to measure octanoylcarnitine levels using a specialized technique, often high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results are compared to reference ranges specific to your age and health status.
What Do Results Mean?
Interpreting results requires medical expertise. Elevated octanoylcarnitine may signal metabolic imbalances, while very low levels could indicate carnitine deficiency or genetic disorders. Your doctor will discuss findings in the context of your symptoms and other test results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Octanoylcarnitine plays a critical role in fatty acid metabolism. Abnormal levels can signal underlying metabolic disorders, such as carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT) deficiencies, which impair energy production. Early detection can guide targeted treatments, including dietary adjustments or carnitine supplements.
Short name
C8 Carnitine
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal octanoylcarnitine levels?
How soon will I receive my results?
Can diet or exercise affect octanoylcarnitine levels?
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