Galectin-3
Use
For use in conjunction with clinical evaluation as an aid in assessing the prognosis of patients with chronic heart failure. Galectin-3 levels >17.8 ng/mL are present in a proportion of patients with NYHA class II-IV. Such elevated levels are associated with a more progressive form of heart failure resulting in an increased hazard for death or hospitalization.
Special Instructions
Serum or plasma specimens should be collected in a red-top tube, gel-barrier tube, or lavender-top (EDTA) tube. Separated serum or plasma should be transferred to a plastic transport tube. The specimen is stable at room temperature or refrigerated for 22 days, and frozen for 12 months. It can withstand up to 9 freeze/thaw cycles. Causes for rejection include visible hemolysis, plasma other than EDTA, or improperly labeled specimens.
Limitations
Galectin-3 levels may be increased in patients with advanced cancer or other conditions associated with organ fibrosis. The presence of human antimouse antibodies (HAMA) or rheumatoid factor (RF) may interfere with the assay, potentially causing falsely elevated results. Galectin-3 results should be interpreted with caution in patients with high γ-globulins levels, diseases associated with hyperglobulinemia, or a history of therapeutic use of murine monoclonal antibodies. Results are not a marker of cardiac distress or decompensation and should not be used as guides for therapy adjustments.
FDA Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA))
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 62419-7
- 62419-7
Result Turnaround Time
4-6 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.8 mL
Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Container
Red-top tube, gel-barrier tube, or lavender-top (EDTA) tube
Collection Instructions
Transfer separated serum or plasma to a plastic transport tube.
Storage Instructions
Room temperature. Stable at room temperature or refrigerated for 22 days, or frozen for 12 months. Freeze/Thaw Cycle: Stable x9
Causes for Rejection
Visible hemolysis; plasma other than EDTA; improperly labeled specimen
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 22 days |
| Refrigerated | 22 days |
| Frozen | 12 months |