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Acylcarnitinedbsimp

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

A blood test performed on newborns to detect rare metabolic disorders by measuring acylcarnitine levels in the blood.

Quick summary

{"Screens for inherited metabolic disorders affecting how the body breaks down fats","Collected from a small blood sample, usually within 24-48 hours of birth","Abnormal results require follow-up testing to confirm or rule out conditions","Early detection allows for early treatment, which can prevent serious complications","This test is part of routine newborn screening in most countries"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58088-6
Short code
Acylcarnitine DBS-Imp
Synonyms
Acylcarnitine DBS-Imp
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 is this test?

The acylcarnitine newborn screen is a blood test that measures the levels of different acylcarnitines in a baby's blood. Acylcarnitines are substances that help the body transport fatty acids into cells where they can be used for energy. This test helps detect rare genetic metabolic disorders that affect how the body processes fats and amino acids.

Why is this test done?

This test is part of routine newborn screening programs. It helps identify babies with metabolic disorders such as fatty acid oxidation disorders (like MCAD deficiency), organic acidemias (like propionic acidemia), and other inherited conditions. These disorders can cause serious health problems if not treated early, but early detection and treatment can prevent complications and improve outcomes.

How is the test performed?

A small blood sample is taken from your baby's heel (heel stick) within the first 24-48 hours of life. The blood is placed on a special filter paper and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The test is quick and the heel stick may cause brief discomfort, but it is generally well-tolerated by newborns.

What do the results mean?

The laboratory measures various types of acylcarnitines, each represented by a code (like C0, C2, C3, C4, C5, C8, C10, C12, C14, C16, C18). Abnormal levels of specific acylcarnitines can indicate different metabolic disorders. Your healthcare provider will explain which acylcarnitine levels are abnormal and what this may mean for your baby.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is this test mandatory?
Newborn screening is mandatory in most countries and states, but parents can usually opt out for religious or personal reasons. However, healthcare providers strongly recommend the test because the benefits of early detection far outweigh the risks of missing a treatable condition.
What happens if the test results are abnormal?
If the initial screen is abnormal, you will be contacted for follow-up testing. This usually involves collecting another blood sample and may include additional tests such as genetic testing. Many babies with abnormal initial screens are ultimately found to be healthy (false positives), but it is important to complete all follow-up testing to rule out or confirm a disorder.
Can my baby have this disorder even if no one in our family has it?
Yes, most metabolic disorders detected by this test are inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. This means both parents carry a gene mutation for the condition but typically do not have symptoms themselves. Each child has a 25% chance of being affected when both parents are carriers.
Will my baby need special care if a disorder is detected?
If a metabolic disorder is confirmed, your baby will be referred to a metabolic specialist who will create a personalized treatment plan. This may include special formulas, dietary modifications, medication, and regular monitoring. With early and ongoing treatment, many children with these disorders can lead healthy lives.
When will I get the results?
Results are typically available within a few days to two weeks, depending on the laboratory. If results are abnormal, you will be contacted promptly to arrange follow-up testing.
  1. 1
    Newborn Screening: MedlinePlusSource
  2. 2
    Acylcarnitine Profile - Mayo Clinic LaboratoriesSource
  3. 3
    Newborn Screening Information - Baby's First TestSource

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