Serum or plasma concentration of free fatty acids (FFA) by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)
This test measures the levels of free fatty acids in your blood, which are important for energy production and other metabolic processes.
["Understanding your free fatty acid levels can help assess how your body uses fat for fuel and energy."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 103418-0
- Short code
- XR Face 2V
- Synonyms
- XR Face 2V
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 20
- Ref high
- 400
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- xr
- CPT
- 82670
- 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 recommend this test if you have symptoms related to metabolic disorders, such as unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or issues with fat metabolism. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or liver disease.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically required, but you may be asked to fast for a certain period before your blood is drawn, depending on your specific test instructions. Avoiding certain foods or medications for a few hours can help ensure accurate results.
During the Test Process
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the procedure usually takes just a few minutes. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis using HPLC to measure free fatty acid levels.
What the Results Mean
Results will show the concentration of free fatty acids in your blood. While specific reference ranges can vary by lab, abnormal levels may indicate issues with fat metabolism, hormone imbalances, or other metabolic conditions. Your provider will discuss these results with you in detail.
Reference range
Premenopausal: 20-400 pg/mL; Postmenopausal: <30 pg/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Free Fatty Acids (FFA) Profile
Frequently asked questions
What does my free fatty acid level tell me about my health?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or lifestyle changes affect my FFA 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