Acylcarnitine, Plasma Test
This test measures a panel of acylcarnitine species in a plasma sample. Elevated levels are described as associated with organic aciduria or a fatty acid oxidation disorder.
About this test
Acylcarnitines are reported as a panel rather than a single value; the panel Quest lists includes more than 30 individual acylcarnitine species along with an interpretation. Levels are measured using chromatography and mass spectrometry on a frozen plasma sample.
Quest describes elevated acylcarnitine levels as associated with organic aciduria or a fatty acid oxidation disorder, so the panel may be used in evaluating these conditions. Quest also notes that a low carnitine level can mask an underlying disease state, which can affect how the panel is interpreted, which is why results are read by a clinician alongside the clinical picture.
Who might consider this test?
- Because interpretation can be affected by carnitine status, the ordering clinician reads the full panel together with the reason for testing.
Test details
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
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Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The panel reports individual acylcarnitine species — including short-, medium-, and long-chain forms such as acetylcarnitine, octanoylcarnitine, and hexadecanoylcarnitine — along with an interpretation. The specimen is a frozen plasma sample, and Quest lists a preparation instruction for this test: being in a well-fed state before the blood draw.
This test isn't part of the Celio Health store at the moment, so it can't be ordered or requested here. The test menu lists everything that can.
Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a licensed clinician who knows your health history. This page is information about a test, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Acylcarnitine, Plasma test measure?
It measures a panel of acylcarnitine species in plasma using chromatography and mass spectrometry. Elevated levels are associated with organic aciduria or a fatty acid oxidation disorder.
How is the sample collected?
The test uses a 1 mL frozen plasma sample, collected in a sodium heparin (green-top) tube.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
Yes. Quest lists a preparation instruction for this test: being in a well-fed state before the blood draw. Follow any additional instructions your ordering clinician provides.
Can a low carnitine level affect the result?
Quest notes that a low carnitine level may mask an underlying disease state, which can affect how the panel is interpreted.