Galectin-3, Serum
Use
Galectin-3, a carbohydrate-binding lectin, is a biomarker associated with inflammatory pathways and cardiac remodeling, making it useful in prognosticating patients with heart failure. It assists in risk stratification by detecting fibrosis and remodeling processes, potentially guiding therapeutic strategies. Elevated galectin-3 levels are linked with higher adverse outcomes, highlighting its significance in the ongoing management of heart failure.
Special Instructions
Ensure specimen is centrifuged and serum is aliquoted into a plastic vial for submission. Use the Cardiovascular Test Request Form (T724) if not ordering electronically. Note that only red top tubes are acceptable, and serum gel/SST containers are not.
Limitations
Galectin-3 is not useful for the acute diagnosis of heart failure; natriuretic peptides should be used instead. Visibly hemolyzed specimens, due to intracellular galectin-3 release, will be rejected as these can interfere with the assay. Interference may also occur from heterophile antibodies or rheumatoid factor, leading to falsely elevated results. Therefore, interpretations require consideration of these factors.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (ELISA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 62419-7
- 62419-7
Result Turnaround Time
1-8 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, Gross lipemia
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 24 hours |
| Frozen | 365 days |