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Tetradecanoyl carnitine concentration (Carnitine acyl species)

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

This test measures the amount of a specific fatty acid linked to carnitine in your blood, which helps assess how well your body converts fats for energy.

Quick summary

["This test may help diagnose or monitor metabolic disorders involving fat metabolism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
54340-5
Short code
Tdecanoylcarn Amn-sCnc
Synonyms
Tdecanoylcarn 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

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms of metabolic disorders, such as unexplained muscle weakness, fatigue, or neurological issues. It could also be used to evaluate conditions like medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD) deficiency or other inherited disorders of fatty acid metabolism.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically required, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the blood draw. Avoid strenuous activity or eating high-fat foods for this period if instructed.

What the Test Involves

A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process usually takes just a few minutes. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Abnormal results may indicate an imbalance in fatty acid metabolism, which could point to conditions like carnitine palmitoyltransferase II (CPT2) deficiency or other metabolic disorders. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Tetradecanoyl carnitine

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal tetradecanoyl carnitine levels?
Abnormal levels may result from genetic disorders affecting fat metabolism, such as medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD) deficiency or mitochondrial disorders. Dietary factors (e.g., high-fat intake), medications, or other metabolic conditions can also influence results.
How is this test different from other carnitine tests?
This test specifically measures tetradecanoyl carnitine, a particular fatty acid-carnitine compound. Other carnitine tests (e.g., total carnitine) measure a broader range of carnitine species, including shorter- and longer-chain fatty acids.
Can diet affect this test result?
Yes, diet may influence results. Avoid high-fat foods for 8–12 hours before testing, as fatty acids can temporarily alter carnitine levels. Your doctor may provide specific dietary instructions if needed.
  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