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Galectin-3 Serum Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the level of galectin-3, a protein involved in inflammation and fibrosis (scarring) in the body.

Quick summary

["Galectin-3 helps assess inflammation and tissue damage in certain conditions."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50316-9
Short code
Galectin 3 Ag Tiss Ql ImStn
Synonyms
Galectin 3 Ag Tiss Ql ImStn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
immune-stain
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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate or monitor conditions linked to chronic inflammation, such as heart failure, lung diseases (e.g., pulmonary fibrosis), or liver disease. It can also help track response to treatments for these conditions.

What Does the Test Involve?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to measure galectin-3 levels.

What Are Common Uses?

Galectin-3 is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions like heart failure, interstitial lung disease, or cirrhosis. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for chronic inflammatory or fibrotic diseases.

How Is the Test Performed?

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if instructed by your provider. The blood sample is collected in a sterile tube and processed in the lab.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Galectin-3 is a biomarker associated with extracellular matrix remodeling, particularly in fibrotic processes. Elevated levels may indicate ongoing tissue damage or fibrosis, guiding treatment decisions in chronic diseases like heart failure, pulmonary fibrosis, or cirrhosis. It is not a standalone diagnostic test but often used alongside other markers for a comprehensive assessment.

Short name

Galectin-3

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low galectin-3 level mean?
A high level may suggest inflammation, tissue scarring, or fibrosis in organs like the heart, lungs, or liver. A low level may indicate reduced inflammation or less active disease, but results should be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your full medical history and other test results.
How soon will I get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will discuss the meaning of your results with you.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Follow your provider’s instructions, but generally, fasting for 8–12 hours before the test is common for some blood tests, including this one. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before testing if advised.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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