Ganglioside GM1 (Mass Concentration) in Serum
This test measures the amount of GM1 ganglioside, a complex sugar molecule found in certain cells, in your blood serum. It may be used to evaluate conditions affecting nerve cells or lipid metabolism.
["GM1 ganglioside levels can help diagnose or monitor rare genetic or metabolic disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 111344-8
- Short code
- GD1b Gangl IgM Msmt Ser
- Synonyms
- GD1b Gangl IgM Msmt Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 recommend this test if you have symptoms like muscle weakness, developmental delays, or neurological issues that could be linked to abnormal GM1 levels. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for inherited disorders affecting lipid storage or nerve function.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test to avoid unusual bleeding.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a general reference range for healthy individuals. Elevated levels might suggest certain metabolic or genetic conditions, while very low levels could indicate nerve cell dysfunction. Your provider will discuss findings in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is particularly relevant for diagnosing or managing conditions like GM1 gangliosidosis (a rare lysosomal storage disorder) or other inherited lipid storage diseases that affect nerve tissues.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: GM1 ganglioside is a marker for lysosomal storage disorders, particularly GM1 gangliosidosis, which can cause progressive neurological and muscular degeneration. Abnormal levels may indicate impaired breakdown of GM1 in cells, leading to organ damage or developmental delays. Early detection through blood testing can guide treatment decisions.
Short name
GM1 Ganglioside Serum
Frequently asked questions
What does a high GM1 ganglioside level mean?
Can diet or lifestyle affect GM1 levels?
Is this test painful?
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