Definition

Hormones are compounds that play essential roles in various bodily functions, transmitting messages through the bloodstream to organs, muscles, and other tissues to regulate specific actions. Adipokine, also known as adiponectin, is a hormone produced within fat tissue, contributing to energy regulation and metabolic processes. Metabolism is a series of chemical reactions within the body that transform food (calories) into energy or deliver energy to cells. Additionally, adiponectin enhances insulin sensitivity and exhibits anti-inflammatory properties.

While fat tissue is the primary source of adiponectin, other tissues within the body also produce it. Adiponectin originates from fat tissue, which stores energy in white fat cells called adipocytes. This tissue is responsible for most adiponectin production and release. White fat is the predominant type of fat in the body, located under the skin (subcutaneous fat), surrounding internal organs (visceral fat), and near bones.

Besides adipocytes, other cell types also generate adiponectin, including skeletal muscle cells, heart cells, and endothelial cells, which form a thin membrane lining the heart and blood vessels. Adiponectin testing helps assess its concentration within the bloodstream.

Indications

Doctors may request an adiponectin test to aid in diagnosing metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome. Often, this test is conducted in conjunction with others to support diagnosis.

Contraindications

There are no specific contraindications to undergoing an adiponectin test.

Preparation Before the Test

No special preparation is necessary before an adiponectin test. Fasting is not required, but it is essential to inform your doctor about any medications or foods you are consuming that might influence the test. Staying calm and well-hydrated is recommended.

Test Procedure

An adiponectin test involves a blood sample. A lab technician will clean the area on your arm with an alcohol swab and use a sterile syringe to draw a small blood sample from a vein. For infants, blood is collected from the heel.

For blood drawn from a vein, the skin is cleaned with antiseptic, and a tourniquet is applied to the upper arm to increase pressure and make the blood vessel swell slightly. The needle is then inserted into the vein, typically on the inner arm or elbow or on the back of the hand, and blood is collected into a vial or syringe. Once the sample is taken, the tourniquet is removed, and a bandage is applied to the puncture site to control bleeding.

The collected blood is transferred into a tube and processed in a lab on specialized equipment. This test may take a day to yield results. The risks are minimal, with some people experiencing temporary pain, dizziness, or bruising at the site. The procedure is straightforward and typically lasts about 10 minutes, including cleanup.

Normal and Abnormal Values

Standard ranges for adiponectin levels vary between laboratories and are generally based on gender and body mass index (BMI).

Normal adiponectin values in men:

• BMI below 25: 5-37 micrograms per milliliter (ug/mL)
• BMI from 25 to 30: 5-28 ug/mL
• BMI over 30: 2-20 ug/mL

Normal adiponectin values in women:

• BMI below 25: 5-37 ug/mL
• BMI from 25 to 30: 4-20 ug/mL
• BMI over 30: 4-22 ug/mL

Results and Recommendations (Further Testing)

Abnormal results in an adiponectin test may arise from various conditions, including:

• Obesity
• Underweight
• Insulin resistance
• Atherosclerosis
• Lipodystrophy

These conditions are generally linked to lower than normal adiponectin levels. For instance, patients with obesity tend to exhibit decreased adiponectin values, while those with underweight conditions like anorexia or malnutrition show elevated levels. Weight loss in obese individuals can potentially lead to increased adiponectin values.

Consult the Right Doctor

If your adiponectin test results are abnormal, it is advisable to consult a general practitioner for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. In some cases, seeing an internist may be recommended to receive appropriate care and therapy. Your doctor may suggest additional tests to confirm a diagnosis.

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