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Serum Galectin-3

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

This test measures the amount of galectin-3, a protein linked to inflammation and fibrosis in the body, often checked in serum.

Quick summary

["Galectin-3 helps assess inflammation and organ damage risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
62419-7
Short code
Galectin 3 SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Galectin 3 SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate conditions affecting inflammation, such as heart failure, liver disease, or certain lung disorders. It can also help monitor response to treatment or track progression of chronic conditions.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood draw from a vein in your arm, similar to other routine blood tests. Fasted or non-fasted status does not typically affect this test.

What the Results Mean

Higher than expected levels may suggest increased inflammation or fibrosis, while lower levels might indicate reduced inflammation. Results are interpreted by your provider in the context of your overall health.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to monitor heart failure, liver disease (such as cirrhosis), pulmonary fibrosis, and inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Galectin-3 Level

Frequently asked questions

How is this test different from other inflammation markers?
Unlike general inflammation markers like CRP, galectin-3 specifically targets fibrosis (scarring) and is more closely tied to organ-specific damage, such as the heart or lungs.
Can diet or medications affect galectin-3 levels?
Dietary factors or common medications may influence inflammation indirectly, but galectin-3 levels are primarily measured as a snapshot of current biological activity and are not strongly affected by short-term lifestyle changes.
Is this test always done with other blood tests?
Sometimes yes, but not always. Your provider may order it alongside other tests depending on your symptoms, medical history, or specific condition being evaluated.
  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