Skip to content

Carnitine Acylcarnitine Profile (Serum)

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

This test measures various forms of carnitine and fatty acid derivatives in your blood. It helps assess how well your body is processing fats and detecting potential metabolic disorders.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose and monitor conditions related to fat metabolism and genetic disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
88011-2
Short code
Tdecenoylcarn/C0 SerPl-sRto
Synonyms
Tdecenoylcarn/C0 SerPl-sRto
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained muscle weakness, fatigue, rapid breathing, or unexplained vomiting. It’s also used in newborn screening for metabolic diseases or if you have a family history of conditions like medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD) deficiency.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your doctor specifies it. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as they can affect results.

What Happens During the Test

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis, where different carnitine and acylcarnitine forms are measured using specialized techniques.

What the Results Mean

Results show the levels of specific carnitine and fatty acid compounds. Abnormal levels may indicate issues with fat metabolism, mitochondrial function, or inherited disorders. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Carnitine acylcarnitine panel

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated or low levels of carnitine or acylcarnitines?
Elevated levels may suggest conditions like mitochondrial disorders, carnitine deficiency, or certain genetic metabolic diseases. Low levels could indicate poor fat metabolism, kidney issues, or deficiencies in enzymes that process fats.
How often should this test be repeated?
Your doctor may recommend repeating this test if initial results are abnormal or if symptoms change. Frequency depends on your condition and treatment plan.
Can diet or medications affect this test?
Yes, certain diets (like very low-fat diets) or medications (such as some antibiotics or thyroid medications) can influence results. Always inform your doctor about all medications and dietary changes before testing.
  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