Test library
Carnitine Level Blood Test
A carnitine level test measures carnitine in the blood to help evaluate muscle, energy, and fat-metabolism disorders. Carnitine carries fatty acids into mitochondria, so a deficiency can impair how the body uses fat for fuel.
Order Carnitine Level Testing
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order Carnitine Level Testing- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $118
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The carnitine level test measures the amount of carnitine in the blood. Carnitine is a compound that helps transport long-chain fatty acids into mitochondria, where they are burned for energy. When carnitine is low, muscles and other tissues may not get the fuel they need. The test is used in the evaluation of certain muscle disorders and metabolic conditions, with results interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider.
What this test measures
Carnitine is made in the body from the amino acids lysine and methionine and is also obtained from foods such as red meat and dairy. Its main job is to shuttle fatty acids into the mitochondria so they can be converted to energy. Tissues that rely heavily on fat for fuel, including skeletal muscle and the heart, are especially sensitive to low carnitine levels.
The test measures total carnitine and may report free carnitine and acylcarnitine fractions. The sample is a blood draw, and some laboratories also test urine or use a broader carnitine profile. Because carnitine participates in fatty-acid oxidation, abnormal results can point toward inherited or acquired disorders of that pathway as well as nutritional or absorption problems.
Clinicians order carnitine testing when someone has unexplained muscle weakness, cramping, low blood sugar, or other signs of impaired fat metabolism. It may also be used to monitor people who take certain medications or who have conditions that affect nutrient absorption. Results are always considered with the clinical picture and often with additional metabolic tests.
- Total carnitine
- Free carnitine
- Acylcarnitine
- Acylcarnitine-to-free carnitine ratio
- Short-chain acylcarnitines
- Long-chain acylcarnitines
- Ammonia
- Blood glucose
- Creatine kinase
Why people order this test
- Evaluate unexplained muscle weakness or cramping
- Investigate suspected fatty-acid oxidation disorders
- Check for a nutritional or absorption-related deficiency
- Monitor a known metabolic condition
- Follow up on an abnormal metabolic screening result
- Assess low blood sugar or low energy with a provider
How to prepare
Fasting is often requested for carnitine testing because food intake can affect levels, so follow the instructions provided with the order. The sample is a blood draw from a vein, usually at the arm.
Understanding your results
Results are usually available within one to three business days. The report shows carnitine values, sometimes split into free and acylcarnitine fractions. Low or abnormal levels can reflect several conditions, so a qualified healthcare provider interprets them with symptoms and other testing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is carnitine?
Carnitine is a compound that transports fatty acids into mitochondria so they can be used for energy. The body makes some and gets the rest from food.
Why is carnitine testing done?
It is used to evaluate muscle disorders and conditions that impair fat metabolism, and to check for deficiency.
Do I need to fast?
Fasting is often requested because eating can change carnitine levels. Follow the instructions with your order.
What is the difference between free and total carnitine?
Free carnitine is the unbound form, while total carnitine includes free carnitine plus carnitine bound to fatty acids as acylcarnitine.
Can a deficiency happen without a genetic condition?
Yes. Low carnitine can also result from dietary factors, absorption problems, or certain medical conditions and treatments.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
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