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Albumin to Globulin Ratio (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test compares the levels of albumin and globulin proteins in your blood to help assess protein balance and potential liver or kidney issues.

Quick summary

["A lower ratio may signal protein loss or liver dysfunction; a higher ratio could indicate chronic inflammation or malnutrition."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
40391-5
Short code
pABA Free SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
pABA Free SerPl-mCnc
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 Albumin and Globulin Are

Albumin is a protein made by your liver that helps maintain fluid balance in your body. Globulin includes proteins like antibodies and clotting factors, which support immunity and blood clotting. Together, they reflect overall protein health.

Why It’s Done

Doctors may order this test to check for conditions like liver disease, kidney problems, malnutrition, or chronic inflammation. It can also help monitor treatment progress for conditions like cirrhosis or autoimmune diseases.

How It’s Performed

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where albumin and globulin levels are measured separately, then compared to calculate the ratio.

What the Results Mean

A higher ratio (e.g., >1.5) may suggest low albumin or high globulin, possibly due to liver disease, infections, or inflammation. A lower ratio (e.g., <1.0) could indicate protein loss (e.g., kidney disease) or malnutrition.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Albumin-to-Globulin Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low ratio indicate?
A high ratio often points to chronic liver disease, where the liver struggles to produce enough albumin, or conditions like multiple myeloma, where globulin levels rise due to abnormal protein production. A low ratio may signal kidney disease (e.g., nephrotic syndrome), where protein leaks into urine, or severe malnutrition, where protein intake is insufficient.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine frequency based on your health status. If you have a chronic condition like liver disease or kidney problems, this test may be part of routine monitoring. If you’re asymptomatic, it’s usually not recommended unless symptoms suggest protein imbalance.
Can diet affect this test?
Yes. High-protein diets or certain medical foods can influence albumin levels, while chronic inflammation (e.g., from infections or autoimmune diseases) may raise globulin levels. Avoid extreme diets or supplements without consulting your doctor before testing.
  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