Protein Serum in Dehradun

What is a Protein Serum?

Total serum protein is the sum of two very different components, and the split between them carries most of the information. Albumin, made entirely by the liver, holds fluid inside blood vessels and transports hormones, calcium and medicines. Globulins are a mixed group including the immunoglobulins made by plasma cells and various carrier and inflammatory proteins. Reporting them separately, along with the albumin to globulin ratio, distinguishes situations that a single total would blur. A low albumin with normal globulin suggests liver disease, kidney protein loss, malnutrition or ongoing inflammation. A raised globulin with a reversed A/G ratio suggests chronic infection, autoimmune disease, chronic liver disease, or a plasma cell disorder such as multiple myeloma, in which a single clone of cells produces immunoglobulin in excess. A low globulin raises the possibility of immune deficiency. Because the total can look entirely normal when a low albumin is masked by a high globulin, the fractions are always more informative than the sum, and an abnormal ratio frequently prompts protein electrophoresis to characterise it further.

Why take this test?

Total protein with fractions is advised as part of a liver function panel, and in the assessment of unexplained swelling of the legs, ankles or abdomen, where a low albumin may be the explanation. It is used in suspected kidney disease alongside urine protein, in malnutrition and malabsorption, and in prolonged illness. It is particularly relevant where a plasma cell disorder is suspected: unexplained bone pain especially in the back, recurrent infections, anaemia, kidney impairment, a high calcium, or a markedly raised ESR in an older adult should prompt attention to the globulin fraction and often protein electrophoresis. It is also used in chronic inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. It is rarely ordered alone, since it is included in standard liver and metabolic panels, and its value comes from being read alongside liver enzymes, kidney function, calcium and the blood count.

• Part of a routine liver function panel
• Unexplained swelling of the legs, ankles or abdomen
• Suspected kidney disease, alongside urine protein
• Malnutrition, malabsorption or prolonged illness
• Unexplained bone pain, anaemia or recurrent infections in older adults
• A markedly raised ESR needing explanation

Normal reference ranges

Ranges are indicative for adults. Your report carries the lab-specific reference range and is reviewed by a LabONE pathologist; always interpret results with your doctor.

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