Ordering the Aldolase Test
Aldolase is an enzyme found in muscle tissue and the liver. Measuring its levels in the blood helps identify muscle damage or certain liver conditions. Interestingly, aldolase can also be used to monitor the progress of muscle disorders over time, not just to detect them.
Ordering this test can provide specific benefits:
- Detects muscle injury or inflammation before symptoms become severe
- Helps track the effectiveness of treatment for muscle diseases
- Assists in distinguishing between muscle and nerve disorders
- Supports diagnosis of certain liver conditions
- Offers a baseline for future comparison if muscle symptoms develop
Who Might Benefit from Muscle Enzyme Testing
Someone who has been feeling unexplained muscle weakness after starting a new exercise routine may want to know if their muscles are being affected. This test can help clarify if muscle tissue is being damaged, which can guide next steps for care.
Ordering this test may also be helpful in these situations:
- Ongoing muscle pain without a clear cause
- Family history of muscle disorders
- Monitoring muscle health during certain medications
- Unexplained high levels of other muscle enzymes
- People with thyroid problems, since thyroid issues can sometimes affect muscle enzyme levels
This test should be ordered to measure muscle enzyme levels, which can help identify muscle damage, track changes over time, and guide treatment decisions. Delaying this test could make it harder to pinpoint the cause of muscle symptoms, which may slow down finding the right treatment.
Preparing for Your Muscle Enzyme Blood Test
Fasting is not required before this test, so you can eat and drink as usual unless your doctor gives you different instructions. Always follow any directions your healthcare provider gives you to make sure your results are as useful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Aldolase
Test Name | Reference Range | What This Measures | Low and High Levels of Aldolase |
---|---|---|---|
Aldolase | 1.0 – 7.5 | Aldolase is an enzyme mostly found in muscles and the liver. This test checks for muscle damage or disease by measuring how much aldolase is in your blood. |
High levels mean there may be muscle injury, inflammation, or certain liver problems.
Low levels mean muscle mass may be reduced or there could be certain genetic conditions. |
Reference ranges can change over time. For the most current values, visit the Quest Diagnostics lab test directory.
Aldolase FAQ
Is there Aldolase testing near me?
You can find nearby locations for Aldolase testing using the patient service center locator, which also lists mobile phlebotomy options. For those with muscle weakness or mobility issues, having a convenient site makes sample collection much easier and less stressful.
What is the cost of the test?
The price you see for the Aldolase test includes all fees, including sample collection at patient service center locations. Ordering this test is worth it if you need clear answers about unexplained muscle pain or weakness.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended every few months if you are monitoring a known muscle condition or tracking treatment progress. Regular testing helps you and your doctor see if your muscle enzyme levels are changing, which can guide treatment adjustments.
How accurate is the test?
Aldolase is measured using an enzymatic rate method, which is highly specific for this enzyme and minimizes interference from other proteins. The test has a specificity of 98% and a sensitivity of 97%. All tests at TrueHealthLabs.com are performed by CLIA-certified labs, meeting strict quality and precision standards.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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