N-Telopeptide Cross-Links
NTCL
Description
"N-Telopeptide Cross-Links" (NTx) test measures bone turnover by detecting fragments released as bones break down. It’s commonly used to assess bone loss in conditions like osteoporosis or to monitor treatment effectiveness. High NTx levels may signal rapid bone degradation, increasing fracture risk. Doctors use the results to adjust medications, dietary plans, or exercise routines. Routine NTx testing helps track bone health over time and supports early intervention in patients vulnerable to bone density loss or skeletal complications.
Category
Proteins, Peptides
Procedure
Non-Invasive
Sample Type
Urine
Units
Nanomoles of Bone Collagen Equivalents Per Millimole Creatinine
Procedure Category
Collect, Measure
Test Group
Urine Test Group, Bone Health Group
Test Group Description
Bone Health Group: This group encompasses tests vital for assessing bone health and detecting conditions related to bone metabolism. Urine Test Group: It encompasses a variety of tests aimed at evaluating urinary composition, protein levels, microscopic abnormalities, and microbial cultures, offering comprehensive insights into urinary health and potential related conditions.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: 0.00–38.00 nmol BCE/mmol creatinine
SI Unit: Not Applicable
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: 0.00–64.00 nmol BCE/mmol creatinine
SI Unit: Not Applicable
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Increased levels may indicate:
Acromegaly (Excess growth hormone production)
Bone tumors
Hyperparathyroidism (Overactivity of the parathyroid glands)
Hyperthyroidism (Overactive thyroid gland)
Osteoporosis (Decreased bone density)
Paget's disease of bone (Bone disorder resulting in enlarged and misshapen bones)
Smoking
Vitamin D insufficiency
Decreased levels may indicate:
Hypoparathyroidism (Underactivity of the parathyroid glands)
Hypothyroidism (Underactive thyroid gland)
Kidney disease (Impaired kidney function)
Medications (such as antiresorptives or cortisol treatment)
Key Reasons For Testing
Bone Turnover Assessment: Measures bone resorption to evaluate bone metabolism and health.
Osteoporosis Diagnosis: Identifies increased bone resorption linked to osteoporosis and fracture risk.
Fracture Risk Prediction: Assesses future fracture risk in osteoporosis or low bone mineral density.
Monitoring Osteoporosis Treatment: Tracks treatment response through changes in NTx levels.
Evaluation of Secondary Causes: Detects underlying conditions like hyperparathyroidism or glucocorticoid use contributing to bone loss.
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
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