Gangrene is the death of body tissue caused by a lack of blood supply or bacterial infection. It is most commonly caused by poor circulation from conditions like diabetes or peripheral artery disease, or by bacterial infections such as Clostridium perfringens. The Aldolase blood test is the most important test for monitoring gangrene because it detects enzyme levels released when tissue breaks down.
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Gangrene is caused by interrupted blood supply to tissues or bacterial infection that kills body tissue. Poor circulation from diabetes, peripheral artery disease, atherosclerosis, or blood clots can starve tissues of oxygen and nutrients. Bacterial infections, particularly from Clostridium perfringens (gas gangrene), can rapidly destroy tissue. Severe injuries, frostbite, burns, and surgical complications can also trigger gangrene by damaging blood vessels or introducing bacteria into wounds.
The Aldolase test is the most important blood test for monitoring gangrene because it measures enzyme levels released when tissue dies and breaks down. When gangrene destroys body tissue, aldolase leaks from damaged cells into your bloodstream, and elevated levels indicate ongoing tissue death. This test helps doctors assess how severe the tissue damage is and whether treatment is working. While gangrene is primarily diagnosed through physical examination and imaging studies, the Aldolase test provides crucial information about the extent of cellular breakdown happening in your body.
You should get tested if you notice skin that turns black, blue, or purple, especially on your fingers, toes, or limbs. Get immediate testing if you have severe pain followed by numbness in an area, foul-smelling discharge from a wound, or skin that feels cold and looks shiny. People with diabetes, circulation problems, or recent injuries should test at the first sign of skin color changes or persistent wound infections. Gangrene is a medical emergency, so testing and medical attention should happen immediately when symptoms appear.
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What this means
Your aldolase level is elevated above the normal range, which suggests there may be muscle damage or inflammation occurring. While this could be related to recent intense exercise, persistent elevation may indicate a muscle disease or inflammatory condition that warrants further evaluation.
Recommended actions
Avoid strenuous exercise for a few days and retest to rule out exercise-related elevation
Keep a log of muscle symptoms including pain, weakness, or cramping
Consider following up with your doctor or a neurologist for additional muscle enzyme tests
Stay well-hydrated and ensure adequate rest to support muscle recovery
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