Adiponectinhmwserplmcnc
This blood test measures the level of high-molecular-weight adiponectin, a protein hormone that helps regulate glucose levels and fatty acid breakdown.
{"Measures a specific form of adiponectin protein produced by fat cells","Helps assess insulin sensitivity and metabolic health","Lower levels are associated with type 2 diabetes, obesity, and heart disease","Simple blood test from a vein in your arm","Results help doctors understand your risk for metabolic conditions"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 55819-7
- Short code
- ADIPO-HMW
- Synonyms
- Adiponectin.HMW SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or plain red top tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 2
- Ref high
- 21
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 18 years
- Method
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or Chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA)
- CPT
- 86141
- SNOMED
- 313295006
- Specimen volume
- 1.0-2.0 mL of serum minimum
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24-48 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 5-7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 2-3 months. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 50
- Lipemia max
- 300
- Icterus max
- 20
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The high-molecular-weight (HMW) adiponectin test measures the amount of a specific form of adiponectin in your blood. Adiponectin is a hormone produced by fat cells (adipocytes) that plays a crucial role in regulating glucose levels and breaking down fatty acids. The high-molecular-weight form is the most biologically active version of this protein.
Why is it important?
Adiponectin helps your body respond better to insulin (a hormone that controls blood sugar). Higher levels of HMW adiponectin are generally associated with better insulin sensitivity, healthier metabolism, and lower risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Conversely, low levels are linked to insulin resistance, obesity, and metabolic syndrome.
How is the test performed?
A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. You do not need to fast before this test, but follow any instructions your doctor provides.
What do the results mean?
Results are typically reported as a concentration (such as μg/mL or ng/mL). Higher HMW adiponectin levels generally indicate better metabolic health and lower risk of metabolic diseases. Your doctor will interpret your results in context with other tests and your overall health condition.
Reference range
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and assay methodology. Typical adult range: 2.0-13.0 mcg/mL for males and 4.0-21.0 mcg/mL for females. High molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin typically comprises approximately 50-80% of total adiponectin.N/A
No special preparation required. Fasting is not mandatory but consistency in sampling conditions is recommended. Avoid vigorous exercise 24 hours prior to collection. Inform healthcare provider of any medications affecting adipokine levels.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before this test?
What does it mean if my adiponectin levels are low?
Can lifestyle changes improve my adiponectin levels?
Is this test used alone to diagnose diabetes?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy