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Liver Function Test: Albumin-to-Globulin Ratio (Serum)

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

This test measures the ratio of albumin to globulin proteins in your blood, which can help assess liver function and overall protein balance in your body.

Quick summary

["The albumin-to-globulin ratio helps identify liver health and protein disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
93651-8
Short code
LV Output A4C MOD
Synonyms
LV Output A4C MOD
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-a-c-calc-by-single-plane-method-of-disks
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 Albumin and Globulin?

Albumin is a protein produced mainly by your liver that helps maintain fluid balance in your blood. Globulin proteins, which include antibodies and other proteins, also play roles in immunity and blood clotting. This ratio compares their amounts in your serum.

Why Is This Ratio Important?

A balanced ratio supports normal liver function, immune response, and fluid distribution. Changes may indicate liver disease, malnutrition, or other conditions affecting protein synthesis or breakdown.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where albumin and globulin levels are measured using standard laboratory techniques, often through automated analyzers or immunoassays.

What Does the Result Mean?

Results are interpreted as a ratio (e.g., 1.5:1) rather than absolute values. Higher or lower ratios may signal liver disease, kidney issues, or other health concerns that require further evaluation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: An abnormal albumin-to-globulin ratio can signal underlying liver dysfunction, chronic inflammation, malnutrition, or immune disorders. Doctors may use this test alongside other blood tests to diagnose conditions like cirrhosis, hepatitis, or protein-losing syndromes.

Short name

Albumin-to-Globulin Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What causes an elevated albumin-to-globulin ratio?
An elevated ratio may occur due to conditions that reduce globulin production (e.g., liver disease) or increase albumin (e.g., dehydration or certain medications). It’s not always directly linked to a single cause and often requires additional testing.
What causes a decreased albumin-to-globulin ratio?
A decreased ratio often reflects higher globulin levels (e.g., due to infections, autoimmune diseases, or chronic inflammation) or lower albumin (e.g., due to liver failure, malnutrition, or kidney disease). Your doctor will consider your full medical history and other test results.
How often should this test be done?
Frequency depends on your health status. Doctors may order this test periodically for patients with liver disease, chronic illnesses, or those undergoing treatments that affect protein levels. Regular monitoring helps track progress or detect changes early.
  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