Vitamin D Binding Protein (DBP) – Serum
This test measures the level of Vitamin D Binding Protein (DBP) in your blood. DBP helps transport vitamin D and other hormones in your body.
["DBP levels may be checked if you have vitamin D deficiency or other related conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 54241-5
- Short code
- FLUBV Ag Islt Ql
- Synonyms
- FLUBV Ag Islt Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Does DBP Measure?
Vitamin D Binding Protein (DBP) is a protein in your blood that binds to vitamin D and other hormones, including calcitriol, which is the active form of vitamin D. It helps regulate calcium and phosphate metabolism, which are essential for bone health and other bodily functions. This test assesses the concentration of DBP in your serum to understand its role in hormone transport and potential implications for vitamin D status or other metabolic processes.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms or risk factors for vitamin D deficiency, such as chronic kidney disease, malabsorption disorders, or certain medications that affect vitamin D metabolism. It may also be used in research or specialized clinical scenarios to evaluate hormone transport functions.
Common Reasons for Testing
Common reasons include monitoring vitamin D-related conditions, assessing kidney function indirectly, or investigating unexplained symptoms like bone pain, muscle weakness, or fatigue that may be linked to hormone imbalances.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw if your provider specifies it. Wear a comfortable shirt and arrive at your appointment with an ID and insurance information if required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated DBP levels may be associated with certain genetic conditions or kidney diseases, while low levels could indicate underlying metabolic disturbances or vitamin D deficiency. However, DBP alone is not typically used to diagnose vitamin D deficiency; it is often measured alongside other tests like 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Short name
DBP
Frequently asked questions
How is DBP tested?
What are the typical reference ranges?
Can DBP levels change with diet or supplements?
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