Ganglioside GM3 (Sulfatide) Analysis via Immunoassay
This test measures the concentration of GM3 ganglioside, a type of lipid found in nerve cells, using a blood sample. It may be ordered to assess nerve function or metabolic conditions.
["This test helps evaluate nerve health or metabolic disorders by checking for abnormal GM3 levels in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17671-9
- Short code
- Sulfatide IgM Ser IA-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Sulfatide IgM Ser IA-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- 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
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like nerve damage, metabolic disorders, or conditions affecting lipid metabolism. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for genetic or hereditary diseases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before your blood draw if instructed. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking to discuss with your provider.
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
This test uses a blood sample to measure GM3 ganglioside levels, a lipid found in nerve cells. The result helps identify potential nerve or metabolic issues that may require further evaluation.
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your medical history and symptoms. Abnormal levels may suggest conditions like certain nerve disorders, metabolic diseases, or genetic conditions affecting lipid metabolism.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated or low GM3 levels can indicate underlying nerve damage, metabolic disorders, or conditions like certain lysosomal storage diseases. This test may be part of a diagnostic workup for hereditary or progressive neurological conditions.
Short name
GM3 Ganglioside Level
Frequently asked questions
How long will it take to get my results?
What does a normal result mean?
Can I take anything before or after the 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