Skip to content

Serum or Plasma Immunoassay for Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin (NGAL)

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

This test measures a protein released by white blood cells called neutrophils. It helps assess kidney function and the body’s response to injury or infection.

Quick summary

["NGAL can signal kidney stress or early signs of organ damage after trauma or surgery."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
86176-5
Short code
S pneum Da 9N IgG 2:1 Ser-Rto
Synonyms
S pneum Da 9N IgG 2:1 Ser-Rto
Category
coagulation
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

What Is NGAL Used For?

Doctors may order NGAL testing to monitor kidney health, especially in patients with conditions like acute kidney injury, heart failure, or after major surgeries. It can also help track recovery from infections or injuries.

Why Is NGAL Important?

NGAL levels can rise quickly in response to inflammation or tissue damage, making it useful for early detection of kidney problems or other organ stress.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in the arm. The blood is processed to separate serum or plasma, then tested for NGAL using an immunoassay method.

What Does a High or Low NGAL Level Mean?

Elevated NGAL often signals kidney strain, infection, or trauma. Very low levels may indicate certain immune or metabolic conditions, but results depend on clinical context.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: NGAL is a biomarker for monitoring kidney function and detecting early signs of organ damage in high-risk patients, such as those with sepsis, heart disease, or post-surgical recovery. It helps guide treatment decisions by identifying when intervention may be needed.

Short name

NGAL (Serum/Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

What triggers an NGAL test?
Your doctor may recommend an NGAL test if you’re at risk for kidney problems, have symptoms like fatigue, swelling, or changes in urine, or are recovering from surgery, infection, or trauma.
How soon after a procedure or illness can NGAL levels change?
NGAL levels can rise within hours or days after injury, infection, or surgery, depending on the severity. Your results will be interpreted alongside your medical history and symptoms.
Can NGAL levels be affected by diet or medications?
Dietary changes or some medications may indirectly influence kidney function, but NGAL itself is not typically affected by common over-the-counter supplements or routine medications unless prescribed for kidney disease.
  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