Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: Fasting for at least 8 hours prior to collection is required
- Turnaround: 6-8 days (may take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays)
What This Test Measures
This test measures 36 amino acids and related metabolites in the blood using LC/MS (liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry) methodology. The analytes measured include Alanine, Alloisoleucine, Alpha-aminoadipate, Alpha-aminobutyrate, Arginine, Argininosuccinate, Asparagine, Aspartate, Beta-alanine, Beta-aminoisobutyrate, Citrulline, Cystathionine, Cystine, Gamma-aminobutyrate, Glutamate, Glutamine, Glycine, Histidine, Homocitrulline, Homocysteine, Hydroxylysine, Hydroxyproline, Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Methionine, Ornithine, Phenylalanine, Proline, Sarcosine, Serine, Taurine, Threonine, Tryptophan, Tyrosine, and Valine.
Results reflect circulating concentrations of these amino acids and related compounds in the blood at the time of collection. Amino acids serve as building blocks for proteins, neurotransmitters, hormone precursors, and enzyme co-factors, and this test does not measure any vitamin, mineral, or nutrient outside this specific list.
Benefits
- Measures 36 amino acids and related metabolites in one blood draw
- Uses LC/MS methodology for detailed amino acid detection
- Can help evaluate primary and secondary aminoacidopathies
- Supports monitoring of existing metabolic treatment plans
- May assist in assessing nutritional status related to protein metabolism
- Provides a broad amino acid profile for healthcare provider review
Who Is This Test For?
- Individuals experiencing symptoms associated with inborn errors of metabolism
- People with unexplained fatigue, hypoglycemia, or loss of appetite
- Individuals with unexplained developmental delays
- People being monitored for an existing metabolic treatment plan
- Individuals whose healthcare provider wants to assess nutritional status
- People with unexplained liver disorder, seizures, or acidic blood
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this test?
This test measures the circulating blood concentrations of 36 amino acids and related metabolites using LC/MS methodology. It may help a healthcare provider evaluate primary and secondary aminoacidopathies, monitor treatment plans, or assess nutritional status related to protein metabolism. This test does not by itself diagnose a deficiency, excess, toxicity, or metabolic disorder.
2. Who would benefit from this test?
This test may be appropriate for individuals experiencing symptoms associated with inborn errors of metabolism, such as unexplained fatigue, hypoglycemia, developmental delays, or liver disorder. It may also benefit those whose healthcare provider is monitoring an existing metabolic treatment plan or evaluating nutritional status related to protein metabolism.
3. When should I order this test?
You may consider ordering this test if you are experiencing symptoms associated with inborn errors of metabolism, such as involuntary weight loss, stunted growth, developmental delays, fatigue, hypoglycemia, or stomach problems. It may also be considered for monitoring an existing metabolic treatment plan. This test does not replace a full medical or nutritional evaluation.
4. How does this test differ from other nutritional tests?
This test measures amino acid concentrations directly from a blood specimen using LC/MS methodology, rather than urine or other specimen types. It reports circulating levels of 36 specific amino acids and related metabolites rather than a single nutrient, vitamin, or mineral. Because it is blood based, its results are not interchangeable with urine-based amino acid measurements.
5. Do I need to fast before this test?
Yes, fasting for at least 8 hours prior to collection is required.
6. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 6-8 days. Results may take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
7. How do I interpret the results?
The meaning of your results depends on which specific amino acids are elevated or decreased, along with your symptoms, medical history, diet, medications, and other laboratory findings. A low or high result for a single amino acid does not by itself confirm a deficiency, excess, or metabolic disorder, and a normal result does not rule out a nutritional or metabolic concern. Results are often interpreted alongside other laboratory findings.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
8. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
If your results fall outside the expected range, review them with a qualified healthcare provider. Your provider can help determine whether additional evaluation or testing may be appropriate based on your symptoms and health history. This test alone does not provide a complete clinical conclusion.
9. How often should I get tested?
Testing frequency depends on your individual health situation and should be determined as directed by your healthcare provider, particularly if this test is being used to monitor an existing treatment plan.
Pre test preparation
Fasting for at least 8 hours prior to collection is required.
