Liver Function Test with Simpson’s Rule for Estimated Albumin-to-Globulin Ratio (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the relative balance between albumin and globulin proteins in your blood, which can help assess liver function and overall protein status.
["The test provides insight into protein distribution and potential liver or immune system health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 77892-8
- Short code
- LV EF US.2D+mod Simpson
- Synonyms
- LV EF US.2D+mod Simpson
- 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-d-calculated-by-modified-simpson-method
- 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 This Test Measures
Albumin and globulin are key proteins in your blood. Albumin helps maintain fluid balance, while globulins support immune function and transport substances. This test compares their levels to estimate the albumin-to-globulin ratio, which can reflect liver health, inflammation, or protein synthesis issues.
Why It’s Done
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, swelling, or unexplained weight changes, or if they suspect liver disease, malnutrition, or chronic inflammation. It can also help monitor conditions like cirrhosis, chronic liver disease, or certain immune disorders.
How It Works
Blood is drawn and analyzed to measure albumin and globulin concentrations. The ratio is calculated using Simpson’s rule—a mathematical method to smooth and estimate values from the test results.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about any medications or conditions that might affect protein levels, such as kidney disease or certain infections.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An elevated albumin-to-globulin ratio may suggest liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis), malnutrition, or chronic inflammation. A low ratio could indicate liver dysfunction, protein loss (e.g., from kidney disease), or immune disorders. This test is often used alongside other liver function tests to guide treatment decisions.
Short name
Albumin-to-Globulin Ratio (A/G) Estimation
Frequently asked questions
How long will results take?
What does a high or low ratio mean?
Can diet affect 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