Carnitine Total and Free Blood Test
This Carnitine Total and Free Blood Test measures your blood's amount of a substance called carnitine. It compares the amount of carnitine that is usable or " free " to the total amount in your body.
Description
Carnitine is a compound that is found in almost all parts of your body. Your cells usually use fats for energy in your body. Your body has difficulty digesting fatty acids without carnitine. It cannot convert fats into energy and instead uses sugar in your blood for energy.
If you are treated for type 2 diabetes, cancer, an enlarged heart or kidney disease, you may need this test. These conditions can in some cases affect how you use carnitine.
Some people have a deficiency of carnitine. You can have low blood sugar if your body can not use carnitine and can become weak, tired and anemic. You may develop problems with your heart and kidney. Some people even develop muscle progressive diseases, such as muscular dystrophy.
Deficiency is more common in people who:
- Have severe liver disorders
- Have enzyme deficiencies
- Have chronic diarrhea, hemodialysis or diuresis
- Are fasting
- Have a hereditary disorder that causes carnitine to leak from the renal tubes
- Have viral infections