Very Long Chain Fatty Acids

This test measures the ratio of very long-chain fatty acids (C24:0 to C22:0) in your blood. The balance between these fatty acids is important for proper cellular function, particularly in the nervous system and tissues that rely on energy metabolism. Abnormal ratios may indicate metabolic disorders, genetic conditions affecting fatty acid oxidation, or certain neurological diseases. This specialized test is typically ordered when metabolic disorders are suspected based on clinical symptoms.

Age is a calculated value based on your birth date or reported age. While seemingly simple, age is a critical clinical variable used to interpret other lab results, as reference ranges vary significantly by age group. Age is essential context for all medical assessments, influencing risk stratification, treatment decisions, and screening recommendations. Accurate age documentation is fundamental to safe medical care.

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.

Pristanate is another branched-chain fatty acid metabolite measured in blood. Like phytanate, elevated pristanate levels suggest peroxisomal disorders affecting fatty acid metabolism, such as Refsum disease or related conditions. Pristanate and phytanate are often measured together as markers of peroxisomal dysfunction. These rare genetic disorders cause accumulation of these fatty acids, leading to progressive neurological symptoms including peripheral neuropathy and ataxia.