Galactose in Blood (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of galactose, a simple sugar, in your blood. Galactose is a natural part of your body’s metabolism and can be elevated in certain conditions.
["Understanding your galactose levels helps identify potential metabolic or genetic issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 1479-5
- Short code
- Galactose 4.5h p 40 g Gal PO Bld-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Galactose 4.5h p 40 g Gal PO Bld-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 44
- Ref high
- 147
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84075
- SNOMED
- 27550007
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like confusion, seizures, or developmental delays in infants, or if you have a history of galactosemia (a rare genetic disorder affecting sugar metabolism). Adults may also be tested if they have unexplained liver problems or if they consume large amounts of dairy products.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw, but this depends on your provider’s instructions. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking to your appointment.
During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the procedure is quick. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to standard reference ranges for galactose in blood. High levels may suggest metabolic disorders, while low levels are less commonly evaluated unless part of a broader metabolic workup.
Reference range
Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated galactose levels can indicate galactosemia or other metabolic disorders that require immediate medical attention. In infants, untreated galactosemia can lead to severe health complications, including liver damage or intellectual disability. Adults with high levels may need dietary adjustments or enzyme replacement therapy to manage symptoms.
Short name
Galactose Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my results?
What causes abnormal galactose levels?
Can diet changes help if my galactose levels are high?
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