Very Long Chain Fatty Acids Test
Comprehensive Introduction to Very Long Chain Fatty Acids Testing
The Very Long Chain Fatty Acids (VLCFA) Test represents a cutting-edge diagnostic tool in metabolic medicine, specifically designed to evaluate the body’s ability to process and metabolize long-chain fatty acids. This sophisticated analysis plays a crucial role in identifying peroxisomal disorders—a group of rare but serious genetic conditions affecting cellular metabolism. Peroxisomes are essential cellular organelles responsible for breaking down very long chain fatty acids, and when these structures malfunction, toxic fatty acid accumulation can occur, leading to severe neurological and systemic complications.
At GGC DNA, we utilize advanced Gas Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry technology to deliver precise, reliable results that help physicians make informed diagnostic decisions. Our comprehensive testing approach provides valuable insights into metabolic health, enabling early intervention and personalized treatment strategies for patients across all age groups.
What the Very Long Chain Fatty Acids Test Measures
Our comprehensive VLCFA panel evaluates eight critical biomarkers that provide a complete picture of fatty acid metabolism:
- Phytanic Acid: Measures levels of this branched-chain fatty acid derived from dietary sources
- Pristanic Acid: Evaluates another important branched-chain fatty acid metabolite
- Docosanoic Acid (C22:0): Assesses the saturated very long chain fatty acid with 22 carbon atoms
- Tetracosanoic Acid (C24:0): Measures the 24-carbon saturated fatty acid
- Hexacosanoic Acid (C26:0): Evaluates the 26-carbon saturated fatty acid
- Ratio C24/C22: Calculates the critical ratio between tetracosanoic and docosanoic acids
- Ratio C26/C22: Determines the ratio between hexacosanoic and docosanoic acids
- Ratio Pristanic/Phytanic: Assesses the relationship between these two branched-chain fatty acids
Who Should Consider Very Long Chain Fatty Acids Testing
This specialized test is recommended for individuals presenting with specific clinical indications:
Neurological Symptoms
- Progressive neurological deterioration in childhood or adulthood
- Unexplained seizures or epilepsy
- Developmental regression or delayed milestones in children
- Progressive weakness, spasticity, or coordination difficulties
- Vision or hearing impairment without clear cause
Metabolic and Systemic Concerns
- Adrenal insufficiency or Addison’s disease
- Liver dysfunction or hepatomegaly
- Dysmorphic facial features in infants
- Family history of peroxisomal disorders
- Unexplained metabolic acidosis
Pediatric Presentations
- Infants with severe hypotonia (low muscle tone)
- Failure to thrive or feeding difficulties
- Abnormal eye findings including cataracts or retinal abnormalities
- Suspected Zellweger spectrum disorders
Significant Benefits of VLCFA Testing
Undergoing Very Long Chain Fatty Acids testing provides numerous advantages for patients and healthcare providers:
Early Diagnosis and Intervention
Early detection of peroxisomal disorders enables timely intervention, potentially preventing irreversible neurological damage and improving long-term outcomes. Many treatment approaches, including dietary modifications and specific therapies, are most effective when initiated early in the disease course.
Comprehensive Metabolic Assessment
Our eight-parameter panel offers a complete metabolic profile, allowing for accurate differentiation between various peroxisomal disorders and related conditions. This comprehensive approach reduces the need for multiple sequential tests, saving time and resources.
Family Planning and Genetic Counseling
For families with a history of peroxisomal disorders, VLCFA testing provides crucial information for genetic counseling and family planning decisions. Identifying carriers and affected individuals helps families make informed reproductive choices.
Treatment Monitoring
For patients undergoing treatment for known peroxisomal disorders, regular VLCFA testing helps monitor treatment effectiveness and adjust therapeutic approaches as needed.
Understanding Your Test Results
Interpreting VLCFA test results requires specialized medical expertise, but here’s general guidance on what different patterns might indicate:
Normal Results
Normal levels and ratios of all measured fatty acids typically indicate proper peroxisomal function and suggest that symptoms may be due to other causes requiring further investigation.
Elevated Very Long Chain Fatty Acids
Increased levels of C24:0, C26:0, and elevated C26/C22 and C24/C22 ratios often point toward X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) or other peroxisomal beta-oxidation defects.
Abnormal Phytanic and Pristanic Acid Patterns
Specific patterns in phytanic and pristanic acid levels, along with their ratio, can help differentiate between various peroxisomal disorders, including Refsum disease and rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata.
Comprehensive Pattern Analysis
Our expert medical team analyzes the complete pattern of all eight biomarkers to provide a comprehensive interpretation, considering the patient’s age, clinical presentation, and family history.
Test Pricing and Availability
| Test Name | Discount Price | Regular Price |
|---|---|---|
| Very Long Chain Fatty Acids Test | $876 USD | $1000 USD |
Nationwide Testing Accessibility
GGC DNA maintains comprehensive testing facilities across the United States, ensuring convenient access to advanced diagnostic services. Our network includes specialized collection centers in:
- New York: Multiple locations throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens
- California: Centers in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and Sacramento
- Texas: Facilities in Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio
- Florida: Collection sites in Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville
- Illinois: Chicago and surrounding metropolitan areas
- Arizona: Phoenix and Tucson locations
- Plus numerous additional locations in major metropolitan areas nationwide
Sample Collection and Processing Details
For optimal test accuracy, please follow these collection guidelines:
Sample Requirements
- Sample Type: 2 mL (1 mL minimum) serum in 1 Red Top (No Additive) tube
- Important Note: Do not use SST gel barrier tubes
- Shipping: Ship refrigerated or frozen
- Patient Information: Patient age and gender are essential for accurate result calculation
- Documentation: Duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is mandatory
Pre-Test Preparation
- Fasting: Overnight fasting is mandatory for adult patients
- Pediatric Patients: Fasting is not required, but sample collection should occur prior to the next meal or scheduled feeding
- Alcohol Restriction: Avoid alcohol 24 hours prior to sample collection
Turnaround Time
Sample collection should be completed by the 7th of the month, with comprehensive reports typically available within 2-3 weeks following sample receipt at our specialized laboratory.
Take Control of Your Metabolic Health Today
Don’t let uncertainty about metabolic health concerns affect your quality of life. The Very Long Chain Fatty Acids Test provides definitive answers and clear direction for managing potential peroxisomal disorders. Our team of metabolic specialists and genetic counselors is ready to support you through every step of the testing process.
Ready to schedule your test? Contact us now at +1(267) 388-9828 or book your appointment online through our secure patient portal.
At GGC DNA, we combine cutting-edge technology with compassionate patient care to deliver the highest quality diagnostic services. Trust our expertise in metabolic testing to provide the answers you need for better health outcomes.
