Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: Fasting for 12 hours is required
- Turnaround: 8-10 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
What This Test Measures
This test measures the level of adiponectin, a hormone released by fat cells, in your blood. Adiponectin plays a role in regulating tissue inflammation, supporting insulin sensitivity, and increasing the breakdown of fatty acids in the liver, which in turn affects how much glucose the liver produces.
Because adiponectin levels can be lower in people with Type 2 diabetes mellitus or metabolic syndrome, this test provides insight into a hormone associated with those conditions. It reflects hormone activity related to fat metabolism and insulin sensitivity rather than a direct measurement of blood glucose.
Benefits
- Measures a hormone linked to insulin sensitivity and fat metabolism
- Provides insight into metabolic syndrome risk factors
- Reflects hormone activity associated with Type 2 diabetes risk
- Offers information related to inflammation regulated by fat cells
- Supports a broader conversation with your healthcare provider
Who Is This Test For?
- People experiencing increased thirst or frequent urination
- Individuals with unexplained fatigue or blurry vision
- Those with a history of cardiovascular disease
- People with obesity or unexplained rapid weight loss
- Individuals noticing tingling or numbness in their extremities
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. Do I need to fast or prepare for this test?
Fasting for 12 hours is required before this test.
2. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 8 to 10 days, though timing may take longer based on weather, holidays, or lab delays.
3. What can my results tell me?
Adiponectin levels reflect hormone activity related to fat metabolism, inflammation, and insulin sensitivity. A low result may suggest an increased likelihood of Type 2 diabetes mellitus or metabolic syndrome, though this single measurement does not provide a full picture of your metabolic health.
4. What factors can affect my results?
Not following the required 12-hour fasting period before your blood draw can affect the accuracy of your adiponectin measurement. Since adiponectin is produced by fat cells, factors related to fat metabolism may also influence your result.
5. How do I interpret the results?
Interpreting adiponectin levels depends on your fasting status at the time of collection, your overall health history, and other laboratory findings your provider may consider. A low result does not by itself confirm Type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome, and a normal result does not rule these conditions out. Your healthcare provider can help place your result in the context of your broader health picture.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
6. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
Reviewing an abnormal adiponectin result with a qualified healthcare provider is recommended so it can be considered alongside your health history and other findings. Additional evaluation or testing may be considered by your provider if appropriate, but this result alone does not provide a complete clinical conclusion.
Pre-test preparation
Fasting for 12 hours is required before this test.
