What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained neurological symptoms, muscle weakness, vision or hearing changes, or if you have a family history of peroxisomal disorders. It's often used when there's concern about conditions like X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy or Refsum disease, especially in children with developmental changes or adults with progressive neurological symptoms. This test can help identify whether a buildup of certain fatty acids in the body may be contributing to these symptoms.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with each value's normal range clearly explained so you can see where you stand. If your very long chain fatty acid levels come back outside the normal range, the report will outline what that may mean and suggest appropriate next steps, which may include repeat testing or additional follow-up testing. You can download a standard lab report from your account at any time, and if you test again in the future, you'll be able to track changes over time using the trends feature. If a result is significantly abnormal, especially with concerning symptoms, seek medical care promptly.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common warning signs include muscle weakness, trouble with balance or coordination, vision or hearing loss, learning or behavior changes, and skin discoloration. Adults may notice stiffness in the legs, difficulty walking, or adrenal-related symptoms like fatigue and low blood pressure. If these symptoms run in your family or have appeared without a clear cause, this test may help identify an underlying metabolic issue.

How can I naturally support healthy fatty acid metabolism?

While you can't reverse a genetic peroxisomal disorder through diet alone, some people benefit from limiting foods high in very long chain fatty acids, such as certain nuts, seeds, and processed oils. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins supports overall metabolic health. Staying hydrated and maintaining regular physical activity, as tolerated, can also help support general well-being. Any dietary changes should be paired with monitoring through retesting.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. You'll receive a notification as soon as your results are available in your secure online account. This timeframe allows for the detailed lab analysis needed to accurately measure very long chain fatty acid levels.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good option for people with a family history of peroxisomal disorders like X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy or Refsum disease. It's also useful for individuals experiencing unexplained neurological symptoms, muscle weakness, or vision and hearing changes without a clear cause. Parents of children showing developmental delays or unusual neurological signs may also want to consider this testing.

What is a peroxisomal disorder and why does it matter?

Peroxisomes are tiny structures inside your cells that help break down certain fats, including very long chain fatty acids. When they don't work properly, these fats build up in the body and can affect the brain, nerves, and adrenal glands. Catching this early through testing matters because it allows for closer monitoring and can guide decisions about care and lifestyle adjustments.

What does a high very long chain fatty acid level mean?

A high level suggests your body isn't breaking down certain fats normally, which can point toward a peroxisomal disorder such as X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy. This doesn't diagnose a specific condition on its own but signals that further testing is a reasonable next step. In the meantime, tracking symptoms and retesting periodically can help monitor any changes.

What causes high very long chain fatty acid levels?

Elevated levels are usually caused by inherited genetic changes that affect how peroxisomes function, preventing the normal breakdown of these fats. This is not typically caused by diet or lifestyle, though diet can influence how much of these fats enter the body. Because it's largely genetic, family history is often a strong clue in understanding why levels are elevated.

How often should I retest?

If your first result is normal but you have a family history of a peroxisomal disorder, periodic retesting every year or two can help catch any changes early. If a result comes back abnormal, more frequent monitoring, such as every few months, may be recommended based on your symptoms. Tracking results over time in your account can help you and any caregivers spot trends easily.

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.

VLCFA Test - Peroxisomal 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]

Very Long Chain Fatty Acids Test — Metabolic Disorder Screen

Very Long Chain Fatty Acids

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

What's this test for?

What happens after I get my results?

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Here’s why 1,000,000+ customers chose us for affordable hassle-free private blood testing.

Find a lab near you

Very Long Chain Fatty Acids Test — Metabolic Disorder Screen

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

1,000,000+ blood tests later, here's what our customers say