Phytanate

ChemistryAlso known as: Phytanic acidAlso known as: 3,7,11,15-Tetramethylhexadecanoic acidumol/L

Measures phytanate, a branched-chain fatty acid metabolite in blood.

Normal Range

0.5 – 3 umol/L

umol/L

Abnormal Levels

Consult your provider

Specimen Type

Blood

Why This Biomarker Matters

Elevated phytanate indicates possible peroxisomal disorders like Refsum disease, which cause progressive neurological damage. Early diagnosis enables treatment to prevent complications.

Understanding Your Results

Normal Range

0.5 – 3 umol/L

Overview

Phytanate is a branched-chain fatty acid metabolite measured in blood. Elevated phytanate levels can indicate peroxisomal disorders such as Refsum disease or other peroxisomal beta-oxidation defects. Peroxisomes are cellular organelles crucial for metabolizing certain fatty acids. Accumulation of phytanate damages the nervous system, causing progressive neurological symptoms. This test helps diagnose rare genetic metabolic disorders affecting fatty acid breakdown.

Technical Information (LOINC Codes)

Standardized laboratory codes for this biomarker

22671-2Primary

Phytanate (C16:0(CH3)4) [Moles/volume] in Serum or Plasma

umol/L

Available Lab Tests

Order tests that measure this biomarker

Very Long Chain Fatty Acids

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