Protein (Albumin-to-Globulin Ratio) in Serum or Plasma
This test compares the levels of albumin and globulin proteins in your blood, which can help assess overall protein balance and potential health issues.
["Measures protein balance to identify conditions affecting protein synthesis or breakdown."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72079-7
- Short code
- DRYWEIGHTORDERPRESENT
- Synonyms
- —
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- esrd
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Albumin and Globulin?
Albumin is a key protein produced by your liver that helps maintain fluid balance in your body. Globulin proteins, which include antibodies and other proteins, support immune function and blood clotting. This ratio can give insight into how well your liver and immune system are functioning.
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your doctor may order this test to evaluate conditions like liver disease, kidney problems, malnutrition, or immune system disorders. It can also help monitor chronic conditions like chronic kidney disease or inflammatory diseases.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure albumin and globulin levels separately. The ratio is then calculated.
What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
High albumin-to-globulin ratios may suggest liver disease, malnutrition, or chronic kidney disease. Low ratios could indicate liver dysfunction, overactive immune systems (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), or severe infections.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This ratio can indirectly reflect liver function (albumin production) and immune status (globulin levels). Abnormalities may signal underlying conditions that require further medical evaluation, such as chronic liver disease, autoimmune disorders, or nutritional deficiencies.
Short name
Albumin-to-Globulin Ratio
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal albumin-to-globulin ratio mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet affect this test result?
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