Palmitoleic Acid in Serum or Plasma (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of palmitoleic acid, a type of omega-7 fatty acid, found in your blood. Palmitoleic acid is involved in cell membrane structure and may play a role in metabolism.
["Understanding your palmitoleic acid levels can help assess fat metabolism and overall health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 55965-8
- Short code
- Palmitoleylcarn Amn-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Palmitoleylcarn Amn-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Palmitoleic Acid?
Palmitoleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid derived from dietary sources like fish, olive oil, and certain plant oils. Your body can also produce it as part of normal fatty acid metabolism. While it’s not as widely studied as other fatty acids, it may contribute to cell signaling and energy balance.
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
A healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms or conditions linked to fatty acid metabolism, such as obesity, diabetes, or certain metabolic disorders. It could also be part of a broader lipid panel or research study.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma, where the fatty acid is measured using a specialized laboratory technique, such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
What Do Results Mean?
Results are typically reported as a mass concentration (e.g., micrograms per deciliter or milligrams per deciliter). While reference ranges vary by lab, abnormal levels may suggest metabolic imbalances or dietary influences. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Palmitoleic acid is not a primary diagnostic marker for most conditions, but elevated or low levels may indicate underlying metabolic issues, such as altered fat storage or energy production. Research suggests it could be associated with insulin sensitivity or inflammatory processes, though more studies are needed. Your provider will use these results alongside other clinical findings to guide care.
Short name
Palmitoleic Acid Level
Frequently asked questions
How often is this test performed?
What are common causes of abnormal palmitoleic acid levels?
Can diet affect palmitoleic acid 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