The aldolase test, which measures the levels of aldolase enzyme in the blood, is primarily used as a diagnostic tool for certain medical conditions. Here are some conditions that may require an aldolase test:
- Muscle Disorders: Elevated levels of aldolase can be observed in various muscle disorders, including muscular dystrophy, polymyositis, dermatomyositis, and inclusion body myositis. The aldolase test is often used as an adjunct to other diagnostic tests, such as creatine kinase (CK) levels and electromyography (EMG), to assess muscle damage or inflammation.
- Liver Diseases: Liver diseases that involve hepatocellular damage or destruction, such as viral hepatitis (especially hepatitis A), alcoholic hepatitis, and liver tumors, can cause an increase in aldolase levels. The aldolase test may be used in combination with other liver function tests to evaluate liver health and assess the severity or progression of liver disease.
- Connective Tissue Disorders: Some connective tissue disorders, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis, may lead to elevated aldolase levels. The aldolase test, along with other laboratory and clinical evaluations, can be helpful in diagnosing and monitoring these conditions.
- Certain Cancers: Elevated aldolase levels can be seen in certain cancers, including pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, and lung cancer. However, it is important to note that aldolase is not specific to cancer and should be interpreted in the context of other diagnostic tests and clinical findings.
- Other Conditions: Elevated aldolase levels can also be observed in various other conditions, such as myocardial infarction (heart attack), myopathy due to drug toxicity, and hypothyroidism. The aldolase test may be ordered as part of a comprehensive evaluation to help diagnose or monitor these conditions.