Diagnostics - Organic Acid Testing (OAT) Flashcards
What are organic acids?
Organic acids are metabolites (byproducts) produced from enzymatic pathways, particularly mitochondrial activity, and can be measured via urinalysis to assess metabolic functioning and nutrient needs.
Which clients benefit from Organic Acid Testing (OAT)?
OAT is beneficial for clients with chronic fatigue, suspected nutritional deficiencies, suspected mitochondrial dysfunction, autism, or mood disorders.
What are the benefits of Organic Acid Testing (OAT)?
OAT provides an overview of metabolic function, identifies weaknesses in biochemical pathways, and guides naturopathic care by pinpointing specific nutrient needs or areas for further investigation.
Where can Organic Acid Testing (OAT) be obtained?
OAT can be obtained from labs such as Biolab (now at Viva Health), Genova, Invivo (Biotek lab), and Regenerus (Great Plains Lab). Some tests include environmental pollutants or microbial markers.
What are the downsides of Organic Acid Testing (OAT)?
Downsides include complex interpretation, reliance on lab-specific guides, the impact of dietary intake on results, and the fact that OAT does not measure vitamins directly.
What types of metabolites are analyzed in Organic Acid Testing (OAT)?
OAT measures metabolites related to nutritional function, Krebs cycle, neurotransmitter metabolism, oxalate metabolism, glycolysis, ketone and fatty acid oxidation, detoxification, and dysbiosis.
What is the process for interpreting OAT results?
Interpretation involves looking at organic acids that deviate from the mean, relating these to their pathways, and considering context (symptoms, diet) for accurate interpretation.
How is Organic Acid Testing (OAT) used in clinical practice?
OAT can be purchased as a standalone test or used alongside genetic testing to assess pathways. It is often included in larger nutritional panels, such as Genova’s NutriEval testing.
