Total Protein with Albumin-to-Globulin Ratio (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures your total protein levels and evaluates the balance between albumin and globulin proteins in your blood.
["Understanding your protein balance helps identify potential issues with protein production or breakdown."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 7208-2
- Short code
- Cream Cheese BasoBnd Ab Qn
- Synonyms
- Cream Cheese BasoBnd Ab Qn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 27
- Ref high
- 33
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- lhr
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does Total Protein Measure?
Total protein includes all proteins in your blood, primarily albumin and globulin. Albumin helps maintain blood pressure and holds fluids in circulation, while globulins support immune function and transport substances like hormones and metals.
How Is the Albumin-to-Globulin Ratio Used?
The ratio compares albumin to globulin. A higher albumin-to-globulin ratio may suggest conditions like malnutrition or chronic inflammation, while a lower ratio could indicate liver disease or immune disorders.
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to assess overall protein status, diagnose conditions affecting protein synthesis or breakdown, or evaluate chronic diseases like liver disease or kidney problems.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. Avoid eating or drinking for 8–12 hours before the test if instructed.
Reference range
Adult: 27-33 pgN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Protein profile with A/G ratio
Frequently asked questions
Abnormal results may indicate conditions such as malnutrition, liver disease, chronic infections, or autoimmune disorders. Low albumin could signal fluid loss or poor liver function, while elevated globulins may reflect immune activation or inflammation.
How long will it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy