Carnitine Test
This test measures carnitine in a blood serum sample, reporting free carnitine, esterified carnitine, total carnitine and the esterified/free ratio. Quest describes it as used in evaluating and monitoring patients with carnitine deficiency.
About this test
Quest describes this test as measuring serum carnitine, used in evaluating and monitoring patients with carnitine deficiency, whether primary (inherited) or secondary, arising from other conditions. Primary carnitine deficiency is an inherited condition affecting cellular carnitine uptake.
The sample is a 1 mL frozen serum specimen, analyzed using chromatography/mass spectrometry, which is why the test can report the free, esterified and total carnitine values along with their ratio rather than a single combined number. Quest asks that the person be in a well-fed state at the time of the blood draw.
Test details
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
|---|
Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports four related values from the same sample: carnitine esters, free carnitine, total carnitine, and the esterified/free ratio. Reading these together, rather than any one value alone, is how Quest describes the panel being used in evaluating and monitoring deficiency.
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 this test measure?
It measures free carnitine, esterified carnitine, total carnitine, and the esterified/free ratio in a blood serum sample, using chromatography/mass spectrometry.
How is the sample collected?
The test uses a 1 mL frozen serum sample from a routine blood draw.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
Quest asks that the person be in a well-fed state before the blood draw, and preparation details appear with the test details.
Why is carnitine deficiency evaluated with this panel?
Quest describes this test as used in evaluating and monitoring primary (inherited) or secondary carnitine deficiency, with secondary deficiency linked to certain diseases, diets, or metabolic disorders.