Platform
Company
Immunology & Autoimmune
Review status
Currently under review
Pending specialist review and validation.
This test measures two related acylcarnitines in your blood, adipoylcarnitine and methylglutarylcarnitine, using tandem mass spectrometry. These are small molecules formed when carnitine carries certain dicarboxylic acyl groups produced during normal energy metabolism.
C6DC markers reflect how your body breaks down certain fats and the amino acid leucine. Changes in these markers can occur when metabolic pathways are stressed, when there is an inherited enzyme deficiency, or during acute illness. The test is usually performed as part of a broader acylcarnitine profile.
Doctors use this test to help evaluate possible inborn errors of metabolism, to follow up an abnormal newborn screening result, or to assess unexplained symptoms such as poor feeding, vomiting, low blood sugar, lethargy, or muscle weakness. It can also support monitoring in people with known metabolic conditions.
Finding a true metabolic problem early can guide diet, supplements, and emergency care plans that lower the risk of metabolic decompensation. Because no single marker tells the whole story, your healthcare team interprets this result together with other acylcarnitines, urine organic acids, clinical history, and sometimes genetic testing.
Results are interpreted with age-appropriate reference intervals and in the context of your health status. Mild, temporary elevations can occur with fever, fasting, intense exercise, or recent diet changes. If a result is clearly outside the expected pattern or does not normalize, your clinician may repeat the test and order additional studies such as a full acylcarnitine profile, urine organic acids, and possibly genetic testing.
If your result is unexpected, your clinician will consider medications, supplements, and intercurrent illness before deciding on next steps. Avoid starting or stopping supplements, specialized diets, or fasting plans without medical guidance. If a metabolic condition is suspected or confirmed, you will receive individualized recommendations for daily care and sick-day management.
Reference intervals vary by laboratory, analyzer, methodology, population, and units. The ranges shown here are for education only. Always interpret your results against the reference interval printed on your own lab report.
Fasting, fever, or catabolic stress can transiently raise dicarboxylic acylcarnitines, including C6DC. Testing when you are well and well fed often provides the most stable baseline.
Newborns, especially if premature, can show different acylcarnitine patterns as metabolism matures. Laboratories use age-specific reference intervals when interpreting results.
Carnitine supplements, riboflavin, valproate, and some diets or medical foods can influence acylcarnitine profiles. Tell your clinician about all prescriptions and over-the-counter products.
Recent high fat intake or prolonged low intake can shift acylcarnitine levels. Your clinician may request a routine diet or specific timing before sampling for consistency.
Hemolysis, delayed processing, or mixing up sample types (plasma, serum, dried blood spot) can affect results. Proper collection and prompt processing help ensure accuracy.
Reduced kidney or liver function can alter carnitine balance and acylcarnitine elimination, which may change measured levels and require careful interpretation.
References