What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're trying to understand a family history of unexplained infant deaths, recurrent low blood sugar episodes, or metabolic crises that don't have a clear cause. It's also useful for couples with a family history of fatty acid metabolism disorders who want to know their carrier status before or during pregnancy. Because LCHAD deficiency is passed down through families, this test can help clarify risk for future children.

What's included in this test?

This test looks for a specific, well-documented genetic change that accounts for the vast majority of LCHAD deficiency cases. It matters because identifying this mutation can explain unexplained hypoglycemia episodes, metabolic crashes, or a family history tied to sudden infant death, and it helps families make informed decisions about future pregnancies.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account along with a plain-language explanation of what a positive or negative finding means for the specific gene change tested. If the result is positive, next steps typically include genetic counseling resources and discussing family planning options, since this is an inherited condition rather than something lifestyle changes can reverse. You can download a standard lab report from your account at any time, and because this is a one-time genetic result, it doesn't need retesting or trend tracking the way blood chemistry panels do.

How can I naturally support fatty acid metabolism?

If you're a carrier or affected, avoiding long stretches without food helps prevent your body from having to rely heavily on fat breakdown for energy. Eating small, frequent meals with balanced carbohydrates can reduce stress on your metabolism, especially during illness when appetite drops. Staying well hydrated and avoiding excessive fasting or intense prolonged exercise without fueling are simple everyday habits that support metabolic stability.

When will I get my results?

Results for this genetic mutation analysis are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being received at the lab. Because this is a specialized genetic test, it takes a bit longer than routine bloodwork. You'll be notified as soon as your results are posted to your secure account.

Who should consider this test?

This test is worth considering if you have a family member diagnosed with LCHAD deficiency, a personal or family history of unexplained infant death, or unexplained episodes of severe low blood sugar and metabolic distress. Couples planning a pregnancy who know they carry fatty acid metabolism conditions in their family may also want to check their own carrier status.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Warning signs include recurrent episodes of low blood sugar (especially during illness or fasting), unexplained extreme tiredness, muscle weakness, liver problems in infancy, or vision changes that run in families with metabolic conditions. A family history of sudden unexplained infant death is also a strong reason to consider this test. These symptoms alone don't confirm LCHAD deficiency, but they're reasons to look into it further.

What is LCHAD deficiency and why does it matter?

LCHAD deficiency is an inherited condition where the body can't properly break down certain fats for energy, which can lead to dangerously low blood sugar and buildup of harmful byproducts, especially during fasting or illness. It matters because it's manageable once identified, typically with dietary changes and avoiding prolonged fasting, but can be serious or life-threatening if it goes undiagnosed. Early awareness allows families to take precautions, especially for infants and young children.

What causes LCHAD deficiency to run in families?

LCHAD deficiency is caused by inheriting two copies of a mutated gene, one from each parent, who are typically unaffected carriers themselves. This is called autosomal recessive inheritance, meaning both parents can be completely healthy but still each pass along one copy of the changed gene. If both parents are carriers, each pregnancy has a 1 in 4 chance of the child being affected.

What should I do if my results are positive?

If your result comes back positive, the next practical step is connecting with genetic counseling resources to fully understand what it means for you or your family's health and future pregnancy planning. Avoiding long periods without eating and having a plan for illness (when the body burns more fat for energy) can help reduce risk of a metabolic crisis. If you or a family member ever experiences sudden severe lethargy, vomiting, or confusion, seek medical care right away since this can signal a metabolic emergency.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

LCHAD Mutation Test - Fatty Acid Disorder Screening

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]