N-acetyl-beta-D-hexosaminidase activity (serum/plasma)
This test measures the activity level of the enzyme hexosaminidase, which breaks down certain sugars in your blood. It may be used to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting enzyme function.
["Hexosaminidase activity helps assess metabolic or genetic enzyme disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 16457-4
- Short code
- Hexosaminidase A WBC-cCnc
- Synonyms
- Hexosaminidase A WBC-cCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.5
- Ref high
- 11
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 30 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85004
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003002
- 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 This Test Measuring?
Hexosaminidase is an enzyme found in many tissues, including the liver, brain, and blood. This test specifically looks at how well your body produces and uses this enzyme. It may be part of a broader evaluation for conditions like certain genetic disorders or metabolic diseases that affect sugar metabolism.
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms or risk factors for conditions like Tay-Sachs disease, a rare genetic disorder that causes progressive damage to nerve cells. It could also be used in research or specialized clinical settings to study enzyme activity.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is typically collected from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate the serum or plasma, which is sent to the lab for testing. This test does not require fasting unless specified by your provider.
What Does the Result Mean?
Results are usually reported as a ratio or activity level compared to a standard. Abnormal results may indicate enzyme deficiencies or other metabolic issues. Your provider will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and medical history.
Reference range
Adult: 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated or reduced hexosaminidase activity can signal underlying genetic disorders, metabolic imbalances, or other conditions affecting enzyme function. Early detection is critical for managing conditions like Tay-Sachs disease, which can impact development and health if untreated.
Short name
Hexosaminidase Activity
Frequently asked questions
What are the normal ranges for this test?
How soon will I receive my results?
Can I fast before 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.
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