Understanding the Nagalase Blood Test
The Nagalase blood test is a vital tool in both traditional and functional medicine. This test measures the level of Nagalase protein, an enzyme found in the blood. Nagalase can interfere with the immune system’s functioning, making its monitoring crucial for maintaining health.
Why is the Nagalase Test Important?
In the medical realm, elevated Nagalase levels are often associated with certain health conditions, including viral infections and some types of cancer.
In functional medicine, understanding Nagalase levels can provide insights into the body’s immune system performance. Nagalase also can influence how vitamin D is processed in the body which is important in functional medicine treatments. Identifying abnormalities early can lead to more effective management of health conditions.
Reasons to Consider the Nagalase Blood Test
Ordering a Nagalase blood test is a proactive step towards taking control of your health. It’s particularly recommended if you are experiencing unexplained symptoms or if you want to monitor your immune system’s health. This test serves as a valuable indicator, aiding in the early detection and management of potential health issues.
Labs Included in Your Order
| Test Name | Reference Range | Description | Low and High Levels of Nagalase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nagalase (Alpha-N-acetylgalactosaminidase) |
|
Measures the activity of Nagalase in blood. | High: High levels of Nagalase can indicate the presence of certain cancers or viral infections, reflecting an increase in tumor burden or viral activity.
Low: Low levels might be associated with genetic conditions like Schindler/Kanzaki Disease or indicate a lower burden of disease or effective response to treatment. |
A study on PubMed found that a special protein in our blood, called Nagalase, might be important for figuring out if someone has a certain kind of cancer. Usually, this protein is not found in healthy people, but it may appear in those with cancer. This makes Nagalase a helpful tool for doctors to understand how serious the cancer is and how it might change over time.
Nagalase Blood Test, FAQ
What is the Nagalase Blood Test for?
This test measures the level of Nagalase, an enzyme in the blood. It’s used to monitor the effectiveness of therapy in cancer and certain viral infections, including HIV.
What causes high and low levels?
High levels may indicate cancer or viral infections. Low levels could be associated with genetic conditions like Schindler/Kanzaki Disease or effective disease treatment.
What are the signs and symptoms of these issues?
Signs and symptoms vary based on the underlying condition. For instance, cancer or viral infections may present with varied symptoms depending on the disease stage and type.
How often should I retest?
The frequency of retesting depends on individual health conditions and should be determined by healthcare providers.
How accurate is the test?
While useful for monitoring certain conditions, the accuracy of the Nagalase test as a diagnostic tool for cancer or other diseases has been debated and requires further research.
Are test results private and confidential?
Test results are provided only to you securely through your TrueHealthLabs.com results tab under “My Account.” Since the Nagalase test can be related to cancer, it is essential (and your responsibility) to share any test results with your treating physician. Results may be provided to local, state, or federal health authorities, but only when legally required, as in the case of communicable diseases like STDs or COVID-19. Review our privacy policy for more details.
To learn more, see our comprehensive guide to the Nagalase Blood Test.
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.
