Skip to content

Vitamin D Binding Protein (DBP) – Serum Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the level of Vitamin D Binding Protein (DBP) in your blood serum. DBP helps transport vitamin D in your bloodstream and may also be involved in immune function.

Quick summary

["DBP levels can offer insights into vitamin D metabolism and immune health."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
57329-5
Short code
FLUBV IgM sp2 Ser IA-aCnc
Synonyms
FLUBV IgM sp2 Ser IA-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
CPT
82784
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 Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if they suspect conditions related to vitamin D metabolism, immune system function, or genetic disorders affecting protein levels. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for kidney function or hereditary conditions like familial Mediterranean fever.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your provider specifies it. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking, as they could influence results.

What the Test Involves

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to measure DBP concentration.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a mass concentration in serum. While reference ranges vary by lab, abnormal levels may indicate conditions like hypovitaminosis D, kidney disease, or genetic disorders affecting protein synthesis.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

DBP Serum

Frequently asked questions

What does DBP measure?
DBP measures the concentration of Vitamin D Binding Protein in your blood. It’s a carrier protein that helps transport vitamin D and may play a role in immune regulation. Abnormal levels can suggest underlying health issues, such as vitamin D deficiency, kidney disease, or hereditary disorders.
Can DBP levels change with diet or supplements?
Dietary vitamin D intake (e.g., from fatty fish, fortified foods) or supplements may indirectly affect vitamin D metabolism, but DBP itself is not directly influenced by diet. However, chronic vitamin D deficiency could alter DBP production over time.
Is DBP testing related to vitamin D levels?
DBP testing is often performed alongside or as part of broader evaluations for vitamin D status, but it does not directly measure vitamin D levels. Instead, it assesses the protein responsible for transporting vitamin D in the bloodstream.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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