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What is an aldolase test??
Aldolase is one of the enzymes that is involved in the process of converting glucose into energy. The aldolase test measures the levels of aldolase enzymes in the blood. Even though aldolase is present throughout our body, its highest concentrations are present in the liver and muscles. Abnormal levels of aldolase could indicate muscle or liver damage. This test was commonly used in the past to monitor liver or muscle damage. However, this test has been replaced by other more specific tests. These include creatine kinase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase. Thus, this test is no longer used in routine testing.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is an aldolase test used for?
The aldolase test test is not ordered routinely and can be prescribed to monitor liver or muscular damage. Elevated aldolase levels could indicate a major health issue. Your doctor may advise you to get tested in case of muscle dystrophy. A heart attack can cause muscle damage that will release large quantities of aldolase. Cirrhosis or hepatitis damages the liver and can release aldolase in the blood causing increased aldolase levels.
Understanding the test results of the aldolase test
The results of the test vary depending on the sex of the person. There exists a difference between the normal aldolase levels of women and men. The results also vary depending on the reference ranges used by a particular laboratory. A high aldolase level could indicate skeletal muscle damage, liver or pancreatic cancer, swelling of the liver, or a heart attack.
Why do I need an aldolase test?
You will need the aldolase test if your doctor suspects liver or muscular damage. This test can be used to diagnose myopathies. Myopathies are muscular diseases including muscular dystrophy, rhabdomyolysis, dermatomyositis, muscle weakness because of infections, and muscle problems because of medicines. The symptoms of such muscular disorders include cramps, stiffness, muscle weakness, spasms, and muscle pain.
What happens during an aldolase test?
The aldolase test is performed on a blood sample. During the test, your healthcare provider will inject a needle to collect blood from the vein in your arm. The blood is stored in the vial or tube till further analysis. You may feel a slight pain when the needle is inserted and taken out.
Do you need to fast for an aldolase blood test?
Yes. You will not be able to eat or drink anything for 6-12 hours before the test. This is important to get accurate results for the aldolase test. Our food consists of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and fats. These components can influence the readings in the blood. Thus, giving inaccurate results.
How do you prepare for an aldolase test?
Your doctor will ask you to fast for about 6-12 hours before the test. Sometimes medications can influence the results of an aldolase test. You must inform your doctor about all the over-the-counter drugs and prescribed medicines you take. Exercise can also increase aldolase levels. Thus, you should share your exercise regimen with your doctor. You may be asked to stop exercising several days before the aldolase test.
How long does it take to get the aldolase test results?
It will take 1-3 days to receive the test results after getting tested. Your doctor will use the test to monitor liver or muscle damage if present. The test results may be delayed in case of a holiday or some unexpected events. Sometimes your doctor may also ask you to get additional tests done such as ALT (alanine aminotransferase) test, AST (aspartate aminotransferase), and CPK (creatine phosphokinase).
What are normal results for an aldolase test?
The normal values for the aldolase test can vary from one lab to another. In general, normal values are in the range of 1.0U/L to 7.5 U/L. However, a slight difference is found in the aldolase levels of women and men. Thus, you should discuss the test results with your healthcare provider to understand your results and decide the future course of action.
What does the aldolase test measure?
The Aldolase test measures the levels of the enzyme aldolase in the blood. Aldolase is one of the enzymes responsible for converting glucose into energy. Increased levels of aldolase indicate liver or muscle damage. This test helps in assessing muscle and liver diseases. Symptoms such as myalgia will prompt your doctor to get this done to detect whether this pain is being caused by some problems in the muscle or nerves.
Are there any risks from the test?
This test requires a blood sample. Thus, there are no side effects or risks as such when the test is performed. However, sometimes, taking blood can be difficult for some people as the size of arteries and veins varies from one person to another. Some risks include fainting. Excessive bleeding, infection, feeling lightheaded, accumulation of blood under the person’s skin.
Well, you are just a click away if your doctor has prescribed the aldolase test. Book an appointment or get a free second opinion at Yashoda Hospitals today!
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