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Sulfatide (Serum) Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of sulfatide, a type of glycolipid found in your blood serum. Sulfatides are involved in cell membrane structure and nerve function.

Quick summary

["Understanding your sulfatide levels may help assess certain genetic or metabolic conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
31669-5
Short code
Sulfatide IgG Ser-aCnc
Synonyms
Sulfatide IgG Ser-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may request this test if you have symptoms or a family history suggestive of metabolic disorders, such as Niemann-Pick disease type B (also called saprophagic Niemann-Pick disease). It may also be used in research or specialized diagnostic evaluations.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically required. You may have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm, similar to other blood tests. Avoid alcohol or strenuous activity for 24 hours before testing if instructed.

What the Test Results Mean

Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your clinical picture, symptoms, and other test results. Elevated levels may indicate certain metabolic disorders, while normal levels do not rule out these conditions without further context.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is primarily used in the context of diagnosing or monitoring rare genetic disorders affecting lipid metabolism, such as Niemann-Pick disease variants.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Sulfatide Level

Frequently asked questions

What does a sulfatide test measure?
This test measures the concentration of sulfatide, a specific type of lipid found in your blood serum. It helps identify potential metabolic disorders linked to lipid storage abnormalities.
How is the blood sample collected for this test?
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. You may feel a brief pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort.
Can diet or medications affect sulfatide levels?
While diet or certain medications may influence lipid metabolism in general, there is no strong evidence that standard dietary changes or common medications directly affect sulfatide levels in this specific test. Always follow your provider’s advice regarding any pre-test preparations.
  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