Palmitoylcarnitine in Serum/Plasma (Long-chain acylcarnitine profile component)
This test measures a specific fatty acid linked to carnitine—a compound that helps transport fatty acids into cells for energy. It’s often part of a broader acylcarnitine profile to assess metabolic health.
["This test helps identify issues in fat metabolism, especially in conditions like mitochondrial disorders or genetic metabolic diseases."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 54324-9
- Short code
- Palmitoylcarn CSF-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Palmitoylcarn CSF-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like muscle weakness, fatigue, or unexplained health issues that could be linked to abnormal fat metabolism. It’s also used in diagnosing or monitoring conditions like medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD) deficiency or other inherited metabolic disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed unless instructed. You may need to fast for 8–12 hours before the blood draw, but always follow your doctor’s instructions. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking, as they can affect results.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Abnormal levels of palmitoylcarnitine may indicate problems with how your body breaks down fats. High levels could suggest metabolic disorders, while low levels might point to other health concerns. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Palmitoylcarnitine is a marker of long-chain fatty acid metabolism. Elevated levels may signal mitochondrial dysfunction, genetic disorders affecting fatty acid oxidation, or other metabolic abnormalities. It’s particularly useful in diagnosing conditions that disrupt energy production in cells, such as those involving peroxisomal or mitochondrial disorders.
Short name
Palmitoylcarnitine (C16:0)
Frequently asked questions
How is this test different from other fatty acid tests?
Can diet affect this test result?
Is this test painful?
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