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Serum/plasma **Albumin to Globulin Ratio (A/G Ratio)**

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

This test measures the ratio of albumin and globulin proteins in your blood, helping assess protein balance and potential nutritional or liver issues.

Quick summary

["The A/G ratio helps identify protein disorders and underlying health conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
68446-4
Short code
TRANSPLANTFACILITYNAME
Synonyms
—
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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order an A/G ratio test to evaluate conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, chronic kidney disease, or certain autoimmune disorders. It can also help monitor protein levels in patients receiving dialysis or with long-term medical conditions.

What Does the Ratio Indicate?

A higher albumin-to-globulin ratio often suggests healthy protein balance, while a lower ratio may indicate excess globulins (common in liver disease) or low albumin (common in malnutrition or kidney problems).

Sample Collection and Preparation

Blood is drawn from a vein, typically in the arm. The sample is collected in a tube and sent to a lab for processing. Serum or plasma is separated and analyzed for protein types.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but avoid heavy meals or alcohol 24 hours before the test. Inform your provider about any medications or conditions that may affect results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

A/G Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What causes a high A/G ratio?
A high A/G ratio may be due to chronic inflammation, infection, or certain autoimmune diseases. It can also occur in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
What causes a low A/G ratio?
A low A/G ratio is often linked to malnutrition, liver disease (such as cirrhosis), or kidney disease. It may also appear in patients with protein-losing conditions or those receiving certain medications.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine the frequency based on your health needs. Typically, it’s ordered periodically if you have ongoing conditions like liver disease, kidney disease, or malnutrition.
  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