Serum or plasma fat body area index (electrophoresis-based)
This test measures the relative distribution of fat-containing components in your blood, often assessed through electrophoresis—a technique that separates proteins and lipids based on size and charge. It may help evaluate conditions affecting fat metabolism or protein composition.
["This test helps identify potential imbalances in fat distribution that could relate to metabolic or genetic disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5788-5
- Short code
- Oval fat bodies #/area UrnS HPF
- Synonyms
- Oval fat bodies #/area UrnS HPF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- microscopy-light-hpf
- 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 This Test Measures
Electrophoresis separates blood components, including fat-containing particles, into distinct zones. The 'fat body area' refers to the volume occupied by these particles in your serum or plasma sample. This measurement can indirectly reflect how fats are distributed among different protein fractions, which may be relevant in certain metabolic or genetic conditions.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms or risk factors for conditions like dyslipidemia, certain metabolic disorders, or inherited lipid storage diseases. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for unexplained weight changes, muscle weakness, or other metabolic concerns.
Sample Preparation
This test requires a blood sample drawn from a vein. The blood is processed into either serum (after clotting) or plasma (using an anticoagulant). The fat distribution is analyzed in the liquid portion of the sample, which is then sent to a lab for electrophoresis.
What to Expect
You’ll receive instructions to fast or avoid certain foods/drugs before your blood draw, depending on your provider’s protocol. The procedure is quick and typically painless, with minimal discomfort. Results may take several days to a week, depending on lab processing times.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal fat distribution on electrophoresis may signal underlying metabolic disorders, such as certain types of dysbetalipoproteinemia or inherited lipid storage diseases. It can also help assess how well your body processes fats, especially in patients with known or suspected metabolic syndromes. While not always definitive, it may prompt further testing or monitoring for conditions affecting fat metabolism.
Short name
Fat Distribution Test (Serum/Plasma Electrophoresis)
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low fat body area mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before 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