What does the Fatty Acid Oxidation Markers test measure?

Why is Fatty Acid Oxidation Markers measured?

Elevated dicarboxylic acids suggest impaired fatty acid oxidation due to carnitine deficiency, riboflavin insufficiency (required for acyl-CoA dehydrogenases), or inherited defects of beta-oxidation enzymes. In functional practice these markers prompt carnitine and B vitamin repletion; in paediatric or acute settings they raise suspicion of inborn errors of metabolism.

Reference ranges

Standard reference

Laboratory-specific ranges for medium- and long-chain dicarboxylic acids

Functional medicine optimal

Functional ranges are method-specific; moderate elevations in adults are usually secondary and nutritional, while marked elevations in children warrant metabolic genetics consultation.

Units

mmol/mol creatinine

Reference ranges vary by laboratory and assay platform. Interpret in context of the issuing laboratory's stated range.