Total Protein with Albumin-to-Globulin Ratio (Serum)
This test measures your blood’s total protein levels and compares your albumin (a protein that helps maintain fluid balance) to globulins (proteins involved in immunity and transport). It can help assess liver function, nutritional status, and immune health.
["Check protein balance and potential liver/immune issues with this simple blood test."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 101649-2
- Short code
- Tau Prot CSF IA-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Tau Prot CSF IA-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
Total protein is the sum of all proteins in your blood, including albumin and globulins. Albumin is the most abundant protein and helps keep fluids in your bloodstream. Globulins include proteins like immunoglobulins (antibodies) that support immunity and transport proteins like transferrin. The albumin-to-globulin ratio compares these two groups to evaluate their relative contributions to your health.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may request this test if they suspect liver disease (like cirrhosis), malnutrition, chronic kidney disease, or immune system issues. It can also help monitor conditions like multiple myeloma or inflammatory diseases. Sometimes, it’s used as part of a general health check or to evaluate symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss.
How Is This Test Done?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure total protein and the ratio of albumin to globulins. The results are compared to standard values to help identify any imbalances.
What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
Low total protein or an elevated albumin-to-globulin ratio might suggest liver problems, malnutrition, or kidney disease. A low albumin level alone could indicate poor nutrition or fluid retention. High globulins might point to chronic infections, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers. Always discuss your results with your healthcare provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test provides important clues about your body’s protein balance, which is vital for maintaining fluid balance, supporting immunity, and transporting nutrients. Abnormal results may signal underlying conditions that need medical attention, such as liver disease, infections, or nutritional deficiencies. Your doctor will use these findings alongside other tests and symptoms to guide diagnosis and treatment.
Short name
Total Protein & AG Ratio
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need this test if I feel healthy?
What does an abnormal albumin-to-globulin ratio mean?
Can I eat or drink before 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