3ohsebacatecsfscnc

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

This test measures the level of 3-hydroxysebacate, a fatty acid metabolite, in the cerebrospinal fluid to help diagnose certain metabolic disorders.

Quick summary

{"Measures a fatty acid metabolite in spinal fluid","Helps diagnose peroxisomal and mitochondrial disorders","Sample collected via lumbar puncture (spinal tap)","Results help identify inherited metabolic conditions","Often used with other metabolic tests for complete evaluation"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC: 72447-6
Short code: 3-OH-C8 CSF
Synonyms: 3OHsebacate CSF-sCnc
Category: chemistry
Sample: csf
Container: Sterile polypropylene cryovial or sterile CSF collection tube (plain, no additives)
Units: N/A
Ref low: 0
Ref high: 0.1
Critical range: — – 1 N/A
Fasting: false
Population: adult
Sex: all
Age range: 0–120 years
Method: Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
CPT: 82657 (Organic acids, quantitative, specified, not elsewhere classified) or 80378 (Metabolomic pathway analysis)
SNOMED: 122465004 (Organic acid measurement) or 75890004 (Cerebral spinal fluid specimen)
Specimen volume: 0.5 to 1.0 mL of CSF
Stability: CSF should be processed within 30-60 minutes if室温. For long-term storage, freeze at -20°C or -80°C immediately after collection. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Stable for several months at -80°C.
Hemolysis max: 200
TAT: 72–168 hours
Order: routine

What is this test?

The 3-Hydroxysebacate (3-OH-C8) test measures the amount of 3-hydroxysebacate in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). 3-Hydroxysebacate is a type of organic acid that comes from the breakdown of fatty acids in your body. This test is part of a larger group of tests called organic acid analysis, which helps doctors evaluate how your body processes fats and energy.

Why is it performed?

This test is primarily used to help diagnose and monitor certain inherited metabolic disorders, particularly peroxisomal disorders (such as Zellweger spectrum disorders) and mitochondrial disorders. These conditions affect how the body processes fatty acids and generates energy. When these metabolic pathways are not working properly, 3-hydroxysebacate and similar compounds can accumulate in the CSF. The test may be ordered when a patient shows symptoms such as developmental delays, neurological problems, liver dysfunction, or unusual physical features that suggest a metabolic disorder.

How is the sample collected?

The CSF sample is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap. During this procedure, a healthcare provider inserts a thin needle between the bones in your lower spine to collect a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid. The fluid surrounds your spinal cord and brain, and it can reveal important information about metabolic processes affecting the central nervous system. The procedure is generally safe and takes only a few minutes. Your doctor will explain any necessary preparations and potential risks before the procedure.

Reference range

Reference range: Not detectable or very low (<0.1 micromol/L). Elevated levels may indicate metabolic disorders affecting fatty acid oxidation or mitochondrial function.N/A

Specimen: csf

No special preparation required. This is a cerebral spinal fluid test. Lumbar puncture (lumbar tap) is performed by a trained healthcare professional to collect CSF. Inform the physician of any current medications, especially anticoagulants.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast before this test?

Fasting requirements may vary. Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions. For metabolic testing, sometimes a fasting sample is preferred as it can show different patterns compared to after eating. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

How long does it take to get results?

This is a specialized test performed in reference laboratories with specific expertise in metabolic testing. Results typically take 1-2 weeks, as the analysis requires specialized equipment and expertise to perform accurately.

Is the lumbar puncture procedure painful?

A lumbar puncture is performed with local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. You may feel some pressure or a brief sting when the numbing medicine is injected. The actual fluid collection is usually not painful. Some people may experience a headache afterward, which can be managed with rest and fluids.

What do abnormal results mean?

Abnormal results showing elevated 3-hydroxysebacate levels usually indicate an inherited metabolic disorder, specifically related to peroxisomal function. Your doctor will interpret the results in combination with other test results and your clinical symptoms to make a definitive diagnosis. Genetic testing may be recommended to confirm the specific condition.

Sources

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

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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