What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're trying to understand a family history of MCAD deficiency, a genetic condition that affects how the body breaks down fat for energy. It's also useful if a close relative has been diagnosed with MCAD deficiency or if there's been an unexplained infant death in the family, since this disorder has been linked to some SIDS cases. Many people also use it during family planning to learn their carrier status before having children.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with a clear explanation of what a positive, negative, or carrier result means. If a mutation is found, next steps usually involve sharing the result with close family members who may also want to test, since this is an inherited condition, and avoiding long periods without food which can be risky for people with this disorder. You can download a standard lab report directly from your account at any time. Because this is a one-time genetic result, there's no need to track it over time like other blood values.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Signs that may point to MCAD deficiency include unexplained low blood sugar episodes, especially after skipping meals or during illness, extreme tiredness or weakness, and vomiting that doesn't have another clear cause. In infants, poor feeding, lethargy, or a seizure during a fasting period can be warning signs. If a sibling or close relative has been diagnosed with MCAD deficiency, that's also a strong reason to get tested even without symptoms.

How can I naturally support metabolic health if I carry this gene?

While this is a genetic condition that can't be changed through lifestyle, you can lower your risk of a metabolic crisis by eating regular meals and never going too long without food, especially during illness. Keeping simple carbohydrate snacks on hand for times when you feel unwell or can't eat normally can help maintain steady blood sugar. Staying hydrated and getting enough sleep also helps your body manage energy needs more smoothly.

When will I get my results?

Results for this genetic test are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. You'll get a notification once your results are posted to your secure online account. Genetic tests like this one take a bit longer than routine blood work because the lab has to closely analyze your DNA for specific mutations.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for people with a family history of MCAD deficiency, parents wanting to know their carrier status before or during pregnancy, and adults or children with symptoms like unexplained low blood sugar or extreme fatigue after fasting. It's also worth considering if a family experienced an unexplained infant death, since MCAD deficiency has been associated with some SIDS cases. Couples planning a family who want to understand their genetic risk may also find this test valuable.

What is MCAD deficiency and why does it matter?

MCAD deficiency stands for Medium Chain Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase deficiency, a condition where the body can't properly break down certain fats for energy, especially during fasting or illness. This matters because when the body can't use fat for fuel, blood sugar can drop to dangerous levels, which can be serious if not managed. It's an inherited condition, meaning it's passed down from parents, and knowing your status helps you and your family take steps to stay safe.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means the test found a mutation in the gene responsible for MCAD deficiency, which affects how your body processes fat for energy. Depending on whether one or two copies of the mutated gene are found, you may be a carrier or have the full condition, and the report explains what each result type means. If two mutated copies are found, it's important to avoid long fasting periods and to seek medical care quickly if symptoms like severe vomiting or confusion occur.

What causes MCAD deficiency?

MCAD deficiency is caused by inheriting mutated copies of the gene that makes the MCAD enzyme, one copy from each parent. It's called an autosomal recessive condition, meaning both parents usually don't have symptoms themselves but each carries one copy of the mutation. There's no way to prevent the mutation itself since it's determined by genetics you're born with, but knowing about it helps you manage the risks.

Should other family members get tested too?

Yes, if your result comes back positive, it's a good idea for parents, siblings, and children to consider testing since MCAD deficiency runs in families. This is especially important for couples planning to have children, as knowing both partners' carrier status can help with family planning decisions. Testing close relatives early can help catch the condition before symptoms or a metabolic crisis occurs.

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.

MCAD Mutation Test - Genetic Fat Metabolism 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

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