Abstract
Galectin-3 is mainly used in cardiology as a prognostic marker. lts pathophysiological effects correlate with the risk of cardiac fibrosis and remodelation. Elevated concentrations of galectin-3 in plasma (above the decision limit of 18 µg/L) increase the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and overall mortality, especially in patients with heart failure, myocardial infarction, heart transplantation and other cardiac diseases.
The predictive value of galectin-3 increases when combined with natriuretic peptides. ln cardiology, galectin-3 is recognized as a candidate molecule for prognostication.