Glycoprotein ganglioside profile (qualitative line blot analysis)
This test detects specific types of glycoproteins called gangliosides in your blood, which are involved in cell signaling and nerve function. It may be used to evaluate conditions affecting nerve cells or certain genetic disorders.
["This test helps identify abnormal ganglioside patterns that could signal nerve-related health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 82404-5
- Short code
- GD3 Gangl IgM Ser Ql Line blot
- Synonyms
- GD3 Gangl IgM Ser Ql Line blot
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- line-blot
- 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
What Is Ganglioside Testing Used For?
Ganglioside testing is primarily used to diagnose or monitor conditions linked to abnormal ganglioside accumulation, such as certain inherited metabolic disorders (e.g., GM1 gangliosidosis) or neurodegenerative diseases. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for unexplained nerve symptoms or genetic testing when other tests are inconclusive.
How Is This Test Performed?
Blood is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is then analyzed using a line blot technique to detect and identify specific ganglioside patterns. Results are qualitative, meaning they indicate the presence or absence of certain gangliosides rather than precise measurements.
What Might Abnormal Results Indicate?
Abnormal ganglioside patterns may suggest inherited metabolic disorders, certain nerve diseases, or other conditions affecting lipid metabolism in nerve cells. Your healthcare provider will discuss these findings in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 2 weeks, depending on laboratory processing times. Follow-up with your doctor is recommended to interpret the results and plan next steps.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Ganglioside Testing Plays a Role in Diagnosing Rare Genetic Disorders and Nerve-Related Conditions by Identifying Specific Glycoprotein Patterns. While not all abnormal results point to a clear diagnosis, they can guide further testing or treatment approaches for conditions affecting nerve function or metabolism.
Short name
Ganglioside Blood Test (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
Why would my doctor order this test?
Is this test painful?
Can I prepare for this test?
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy