GlycA (NMR composite inflammation marker)

GlycA is a blood marker of long-term, low-grade inflammation. It is read by NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) spectroscopy. The signal comes from sugar groups (N-acetyl methyl groups) on a few inflammation-related proteins. Those proteins are α1-acid glycoprotein, α1-antitrypsin, haptoglobin, α1-antichymotrypsin, and transferrin. Because it sums up several of them at once, GlycA is steadier day-to-day than the usual marker, hs-CRP. So it may better capture slow, simmering inflammation than sharp spikes. In large studies, the higher your GlycA, the more heart disease, type 2 diabetes, fatty liver, cancer, and early death show up. It can even add information beyond hs-CRP. For now it is a research-grade marker. Most labs do not offer it, and it usually rides along on an NMR lipoprotein panel.

Last reviewed: June 22, 2026

This definition is educational and is not medical advice, a diagnosis, or treatment. Talk to a doctor about any health decisions. Read our full medical disclaimer