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Serum or Plasma Aldolase Activity

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

This test measures the activity level of aldolase, an enzyme involved in breaking down carbohydrates. It may be ordered to help diagnose or monitor conditions affecting muscle, liver, or red blood cells.

Quick summary

["Aldolase helps identify muscle or liver damage by tracking carbohydrate metabolism enzyme activity."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
10118-8
Short code
ST wave MD L-AVF
Synonyms
ST wave MD L-AVF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ekg
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order aldolase testing if you have symptoms like muscle weakness, pain, or fatigue, or if you’re suspected of having conditions such as muscle disorders (e.g., myopathies), liver disease, or hemolytic anemia. It can also be part of evaluating unexplained muscle or liver issues.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. If you’re having blood drawn, avoid eating or drinking for a short time beforehand. If the test involves urine, follow any instructions your provider gives, such as fasting or timing your sample.

What Happens During the Test?

For a blood sample, a small needle will be inserted into your arm, and a few drops of blood will be collected into a tube. For urine, you’ll collect a sample in a clean container. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are typically reported as enzyme activity levels, though exact reference ranges vary by lab. Elevated levels may suggest muscle or liver damage, while lower levels could indicate certain metabolic or genetic conditions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Aldolase

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated aldolase levels?
Elevated aldolase can result from muscle injuries (e.g., trauma, exercise), muscle diseases (e.g., muscular dystrophy), liver problems (e.g., hepatitis), or conditions that cause red blood cell destruction (e.g., hemolytic anemia). Always discuss symptoms with your provider.
What if my aldolase level is normal?
A normal aldolase level doesn’t rule out all possible causes of symptoms like muscle pain or fatigue. Your provider may order additional tests or repeat this test if needed to investigate further.
Can diet affect aldolase test results?
Diet alone typically doesn’t affect aldolase levels, but certain medications (e.g., steroids, some antibiotics) or conditions (e.g., dehydration) may influence results. Always follow your provider’s instructions for test timing.
  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