AA/EPA Ratio - Plasma - Metametrix Clinical laboratory

AA/EPA Ratio - Plasma

Overview

Clinician Info

CPT Codes

Kit Instructions

Sample Reports

Interpretive Guide

References

AA/EPA Ratio

This unique test measures the ratio of arachidonic acid (AA) to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in plasma. This ratio of the principle omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids is a measure of the body’s eicosanoid balance. Balancing the eicosanoids in the body is an excellent way for managing heart disease and other chronic and inflammatory processes.

Recently, a great deal of interest has been paid to the ratio of the fatty acids arachidonic acid (AA) to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). According to Dr. Sears, a lower AA/EPA ratio indicates a better balance of "good" and "bad" eicosanoids in your body. An AA/EPA ratio of 1.5 is considered to be ideal, since this is the ratio found in the Japanese population having the greatest longevity and the lowest incidence of cardiovascular disease. The average AA/EPA of Americans is approximately 11, and for patients with inflammatory conditions and neurological disorders, the AA/EPA ratio will be in excess of 20.

Metametrix AA/EPA Ratio features:

True quantitative analysis of fatty acids
A choice of specimens: from plasma, and available soon, from a finger stick
Metametrix quality and reliability backed by over 20 years of experience.