Carnitine Analysis, Total and Free

Clinical Information

Carnitine plays an important role in the transport of long chain fatty acids into the mitochondria as well as the formation of acylcarnitines.

Technical Information

Free and total carnitine levels are measured by tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS).

Specimen Requirements

• Plasma is the accepted sample type for this test. Collect a minimum of 3 mL whole blood in a sodium heparin tube.
• Or blood can be centrifuged and a minimum of 1 mL plasma removed and sent for analysis.

Transport Instructions

• Plasma should be frozen after collection and shipped frozen, preferably on dry ice.
• Whole blood should be shipped at ambient temperature.