Test Directory

For use in conjunction with clinical evaluation as an aid in assessing the prognosis of patients with chronic heart failure. Galectin-3 levels >17.8 ng/mL are present in a proportion of patients with NYHA class II-IV. Such elevated levels are associated with a more progressive form of heart failure resulting in an increased hazard for death or hospitalization.

Specimen Type: Serum

Alternate Specimen Type: Plasma

Collection Container: Red Top, Plain

Alternate Collection Container: Gold Top, Serum Separator or Lavender Top, EDTA

Desired Specimen Volume: 0.8 mL

1. Collect a red top, plain tube via venipuncture.

1. Separate serum from cells.
2. Transfer 0.8 mL of serum to a clear aliquot tube (screw cap).

Transport to the laboratory refrigerated.

• Visible hemolysis
• Plasma other than EDTA,
• Improperly labeled specimen

See patient report.

Levels of galectin-3 in blood may be increased in patients with certain forms of advanced cancer and other conditions associated with organ fibrosis. Galectin-3 results should be interpreted with caution in such patients. Presence of human antimouse antibodies (HAMA) or rheumatoid factor (RF) may interfere with the galectin-3 assay, which could cause falsely elevated results. The galectin-3 assay should not be used in patients with known HAMA or RF. Galectin-3 results should be interpreted with caution in patients with a history of therapeutic use of murine monoclonal antibodies (IgG) or their fragments or in those who have known autoimmune disorders.

Specimens with high levels of γ-globulins (>2.5 g/dL) may cause false elevation in results. Galectin-3 results from patients with diseases associated with hyperglobulinemia, such as multiple myeloma, should be interpreted with caution.