Fetuin (Alpha-2-Heremans-Schmid Glycoprotein) Quantitative Measurement
This test measures the amount of fetuin, a protein produced mainly in the liver, in your blood. It may be checked to assess liver function, kidney health, or certain metabolic conditions.
["Fetuin levels can help identify potential liver or kidney issues or metabolic disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53656-5
- Short code
- Fet Hrt Diam AP US.meas
- Synonyms
- Fet Hrt Diam AP 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms or conditions linked to liver disease, kidney problems, or metabolic disorders. For example, it might be used to monitor liver function in chronic liver diseases or to evaluate protein metabolism in certain genetic conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw, but always follow your provider’s instructions. Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours before the test if directed.
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the procedure usually takes a few minutes. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis.
The test involves collecting a small amount of blood, usually from your arm. The blood is then processed and analyzed to measure the concentration of fetuin in your serum or plasma.
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your medical history, symptoms, and other test results. Abnormal levels may suggest liver disease, kidney dysfunction, or metabolic issues, but they are not definitive on their own.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Fetuin is involved in regulating calcium metabolism and may play a role in liver fibrosis, kidney disease, and certain metabolic syndromes. Elevated levels could indicate liver dysfunction or other metabolic disturbances, while low levels may be associated with conditions affecting protein synthesis or kidney function. Always discuss results with your provider for personalized interpretation.
Short name
Fetuin Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get the results of this test?
What are the common causes of abnormal fetuin levels?
Is fasting required for 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