Very Long Chain Fatty Acids (VLCFA) Profile
This test measures levels of very long-chain fatty acids in your blood, which can help assess metabolic function and identify conditions like certain genetic disorders.
["VLCFAs are important for energy production and nerve function; abnormal levels may signal metabolic or genetic health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17080-3
- Short code
- VLCFA SerPl
- Synonyms
- VLCFA SerPl
- 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
What Does This Test Measure?
Very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) are a group of fatty acids that play a role in energy metabolism and nerve function. This test typically includes measurements of specific VLCFAs, such as C24:0 (cerotate), C26:0 (lignocerate), and C28:0 (montanate). These compounds are broken down in the body, and their presence can be influenced by genetic, metabolic, or dietary factors.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms or a family history suggestive of conditions like Zellweger syndrome, neonatal adrenoleukodystrophy, or other rare metabolic disorders. It may also be used in the evaluation of patients with unexplained neurological symptoms or developmental delays.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The blood is processed to separate the serum or plasma, which is then analyzed for VLCFA levels using advanced laboratory techniques such as gas chromatography or mass spectrometry.
Common Conditions Monitored
Elevated or abnormal levels of VLCFAs can be associated with inherited metabolic disorders that affect how your body breaks down fats. These conditions may impact brain development, nerve function, and overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal VLCFA levels can indicate underlying metabolic disorders that require specialized management, including dietary interventions, enzyme replacement therapies, or other medical treatments. Early detection is crucial for better outcomes, especially in infants and children.
Short name
VLCFA Blood Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low VLCFA level mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet affect VLCFA 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