ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Fatty Acids, Free : 0080120

Mnemonic: FFA

Methodology: Spectrophotometry
Performed: Mon, Wed, Fri
Reported: 1-4 days
Specimen Required: Collect:  One 4 mL serum separator tube. Fasting specimen preferred. Collect on ice.

Transport:  1 mL serum, frozen. (Min: 0.3 mL)  Submit specimen in an ARUP Standard Transport Tube.

Pediatric Collection/Transport:  0.2 mL serum, frozen.

Remarks:  CRITICAL FROZEN. Separate specimens must be submitted when multiple tests are ordered. Serum must be separated from cells and frozen ASAP, otherwise, lipase continues to break down triglycerides, giving rise to elevated levels of nonesterified (free) fatty acids. Plasma (EDTA, sodium fluoride/potassium oxalate, sodium citrate, or ammonium oxalate), frozen, is also acceptable.

Unacceptable Conditions:  Nonfrozen or heparinized specimens.

Stability:  After separation from cells: Ambient: Unacceptable; Refrigerated: 4 hours; Frozen: 1 month
Reference Interval:
0-30 days: 0.43-1.37 mmol/L
1 month-9 years: 0.50-0.90 mmol/L
10 years and older: 0.10-0.60 mmol/L
CPT Code(s): 82725
 
 

 

 

 
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