Fetuin (Alpha-2-Heremans-Klein Glycoprotein) Serum Concentration
This test measures the amount of fetuin, a protein found in your blood, which plays a role in regulating calcium metabolism and inflammation.
["Fetuin levels may help assess bone health and inflammation, especially in certain conditions like chronic kidney disease or liver disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12170-7
- Short code
- Fet Head HW US.meas
- Synonyms
- Fet Head HW US.meas
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- us-measured
- 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 Fetuin Used For?
Fetuin is primarily measured to evaluate how your body handles calcium and its potential impact on bone density or inflammation. It may also be used in research or specialized clinical scenarios to monitor specific metabolic or inflammatory processes.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms or conditions linked to abnormal fetuin levels, such as chronic kidney disease, liver disease, or metabolic bone disorders. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for certain genetic or inflammatory conditions.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum, which is sent to a lab for analysis using a specialized immunoassay method to measure fetuin concentration.
What Are Possible Results?
Results are expressed in mass concentration units (e.g., grams per liter). While reference ranges vary by lab, abnormal levels may suggest underlying health concerns that require further medical evaluation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated fetuin levels may be associated with chronic kidney disease, liver dysfunction, or certain inflammatory states, potentially affecting calcium metabolism and bone health. Lower levels could indicate conditions like hypophosphatemia or specific genetic disorders. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider, as interpretation depends on your overall health and medical history.
Short name
Fetuin Level
Frequently asked questions
What does a high fetuin level mean?
What does a low fetuin level mean?
Can diet or lifestyle affect fetuin levels?
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