Alpha-Galactosidase Enzyme Activity
A blood-based enzyme test that measures alpha-galactosidase activity, commonly used in evaluating suspected Fabry disease and carrier status.
["Reduced alpha-galactosidase activity may indicate Fabry disease or a genetic carrier state."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 24049-9
- Short code
- A-Galactosidase A WBC-cCnt
- Synonyms
- A-Galactosidase A WBC-cCnt
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.5
- Ref high
- 11
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 30 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85004
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003002
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This test measures the activity of the alpha-galactosidase enzyme. Alpha-galactosidase helps break down certain sugars and fats within cells.
Why might I need this test?
The test may be ordered when symptoms suggest Fabry disease, a genetic condition that can affect the heart, kidneys, nerves, and skin. It may also be used to help assess whether a person carries a variant associated with reduced enzyme activity.
How is the test performed?
A laboratory analyzes a blood-based sample to determine alpha-galactosidase activity. The specific specimen and laboratory method can vary, so results should be interpreted using the details provided with the report.
How do I prepare for the test?
No special preparation is usually required for this test. Follow any instructions from the laboratory or your healthcare professional, particularly if other specialized blood tests have been ordered.
Reference range
Adult: 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low alpha-galactosidase activity may be associated with Fabry disease or with carrying a disease-causing genetic variant. Results should be interpreted with the test method, other laboratory findings, genetic testing, and clinical symptoms because activity levels can vary by age, treatment, and laboratory method.
Short name
Alpha-galactosidase
Frequently asked questions
What does a low alpha-galactosidase result mean?
Does this test diagnose Fabry disease?
Can medications affect the result?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy