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Serum or Plasma Aldolase Activity

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

This test measures the activity of aldolase, an enzyme involved in breaking down carbohydrates for energy. It may be checked to assess muscle damage, certain metabolic conditions, or conditions affecting red blood cells.

Quick summary

["Aldolase helps identify muscle or red blood cell disorders by tracking carbohydrate metabolism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
10126-1
Short code
ST wave MD L-V3
Synonyms
ST wave MD L-V3
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

What Is Aldolase Used For?

Doctors may order aldolase testing to evaluate conditions like hereditary fructose intolerance, hemolytic anemia, or muscle disorders. It can also help monitor muscle damage after injury or surgery.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum or plasma, where the enzyme activity is measured using a specialized lab test.

What Does a High or Low Aldolase Level Mean?

Elevated aldolase levels may suggest muscle damage, certain metabolic disorders, or red blood cell breakdown. Lower-than-normal levels are less commonly associated with specific conditions but may require further evaluation.

Common Conditions Monitored

While aldolase isn’t always the first test for these conditions, it can be part of a broader evaluation for hereditary fructose intolerance, hemolytic anemia, or muscle diseases like myopathies.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Aldolase

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor request this test?
Your doctor may order aldolase testing if you have symptoms like muscle weakness, fatigue, or signs of red blood cell breakdown (e.g., anemia). It may also be part of a metabolic workup for unexplained lab abnormalities.
What should I expect during or after the blood draw?
The blood draw is quick and usually painless. You may feel slight discomfort, but there’s no downtime. Results are typically reported within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is needed, but avoid heavy meals or strenuous activity before the test if instructed by your doctor. If you’re on medications, check with your provider to confirm if they affect results.
  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