3ohpropionateamnscnc
This test measures the level of 3-hydroxypropionate, a metabolic substance, in the amniotic fluid surrounding an unborn baby to help detect certain inherited metabolic disorders.
{"Measures 3-hydroxypropionate levels in amniotic fluid during pregnancy","Helps diagnose metabolic disorders that affect how the body processes food for energy","Used when there's a family history of certain metabolic diseases","Involves amniocentesis procedure to collect the fluid sample","Results help doctors plan appropriate treatment before and after birth"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 50129-6
- Short code
- 3OH-Propionate Amn-sCnc
- Synonyms
- 3OH-Propionate 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
What is this test?
The 3-hydroxypropionate test measures the amount of a substance called 3-hydroxypropionate (also written as 3-OH-C3) in the amniotic fluid. Amniotic fluid is the clear, slightly yellowish liquid that surrounds and protects a developing baby in the womb. This test is a specialized prenatal test performed in a chemistry laboratory.
Why is it done?
This test is performed during pregnancy to check for certain inherited metabolic disorders. These are genetic conditions that affect how the body converts food into energy. Elevated levels of 3-hydroxypropionate in the amniotic fluid may indicate conditions such as multiple carboxylase deficiency, biotinidase deficiency, or other metabolic disorders that involve problems with how the body processes certain proteins and fats.
How is the sample collected?
The sample is collected through a procedure called amniocentesis. During this procedure, a thin needle is inserted through the mother's abdomen into the uterus to withdraw a small amount of amniotic fluid. The procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance to ensure safety. The fluid sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
What do the results mean?
Normal levels of 3-hydroxypropionate in amniotic fluid indicate a lower likelihood of the tested metabolic disorders. Elevated levels suggest that the unborn baby may have a metabolic disorder. However, your healthcare provider will interpret the results in conjunction with other tests and your family history to make an accurate diagnosis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is this test safe during pregnancy?
When is this test typically performed?
Do I need to prepare for this test?
What happens if the test shows elevated levels?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 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