Galectin-3 details
What Galectin-3 shows
Galectin-3 is a protein made by immune cells, particularly macrophages, that plays a role in inflammation and in the formation of fibrous scar tissue. In the heart, it is associated with fibrosis, a stiffening and scarring of heart muscle that can contribute to heart failure. Measuring galectin-3 in serum is used mainly in people already diagnosed with heart failure, to help estimate risk of worsening and guide how closely they are followed. A higher result is associated with more fibrosis and a less favorable outlook, while a lower result suggests less. Galectin-3 can also rise with kidney disease and other conditions, so it is interpreted alongside other heart markers.
Tests that include Galectin-3
This test is used to identify individuals with chronic heart failure who are at an increased risk of disease progression. Galectin-3 is a type of protein that can indicate the severity of heart failure.
- Galectin-3 A protein linked to inflammation and scarring in the heart, measured to help assess outlook and risk in people with heart failure.
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