Aldolase
Use
Evaluate muscle wasting process. High levels are found in progressive Duchenne muscular dystrophy (MD). Elevations occur in carriers of MD, in limb-girdle dystrophy and other dystrophies, in dermatomyositis, polymyositis, and trichinosis, but not in neurogenic atrophies (eg, multiple sclerosis or in myasthenia gravis).
Special Instructions
In the progressive dystrophies, aldolase levels may be 10 to 15 times normal when muscle mass is relatively intact, as in early stages of the disease. Levels decrease as muscle mass diminishes. Inflammatory myopathies such as dermatomyositis and polymyositis may require monitoring aldolase along with CK to evaluate steroid therapy response.
Limitations
Serum aldolase elevation is not specific for muscle disease as it is present in various tissues. In progressive dystrophies, elevated levels may decline with muscle wasting. The enzymatic method determines total enzyme activity without being specific for muscle aldolase. Elevated aldolase levels may also be found with various conditions such as hepatitis, liver diseases, myocardial infarction, and others.
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 1761-6
- 1761-6
Result Turnaround Time
2-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Container
Red-top tube or gel-barrier tube for serum
Collection Instructions
Separate serum or plasma immediately after coagulation (30 minutes).
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate.
Causes for Rejection
Hemolysis (red cells contain aldolase); gross lipemia
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 day |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 15 days |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant