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Institute of Metabolic Disease at Baylor Research Institute
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Carnitine Levels – Free, Sum and Total
Carnitine deficiency can result from fatty acid oxidation disorders, organic acidemias, renal insufficiency, and treatment with drugs such as valproic acid. This test reports quantitative results for free carnitine, sum of the acylcarnitines and total carnitine. Interpretations are included in the report.
Download Test Requisition
Department: Mass Spectrometry
Methodology: Tandem mass spectrometry of butylated acylcarnitines
Sample:
• Dried Blood Spot card – 3 completely filled spots
• Plasma (preferred) - 0.2 mL of heparinized plasma, Minimum volume – 0.1mL
• Serum – 0.2mL of heparinized serum. Minimum volume – 0.1mL
Shipping:
• Dried Blood spot – ship at room temperature.
• Plasma or Serum– Freeze plasma and ship overnight on 3-4 lbs. of dry ice.
Handling:
Ship all sample types overnight using a guaranteed courier.
The preferred sample for this testing is Plasma because the free carnitine in plasma reflects the circulating available free carnitine and physicians are more familiar with the normal ranges for plasma free carnitine. The reference range for dried blood spot free carnitine is lower than for plasma due to lower levels in the red blood cells.
Turnaround time: 1-3 working days from sample receipt
Cost: $80.00
CPT code: 82379
Related tests: Acylcarnitine Profile, Supplemental Newborn Screening |
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