Vitamin D Binding Protein (DBP) – Serum
This test measures the level of a protein in your blood that helps transport vitamin D. It can be part of a broader evaluation for vitamin D deficiency or related conditions.
["This test helps assess how well your body may be using vitamin D."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 31981-4
- Short code
- VZV Ag Skin Ql
- Synonyms
- VZV Ag Skin Ql
- 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 This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of vitamin D deficiency, such as fatigue, muscle weakness, or bone pain. It may also be used in conjunction with other tests to evaluate vitamin D status, especially in cases where vitamin D levels alone are unclear or if you have certain medical conditions that affect vitamin D metabolism.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Avoid excessive alcohol or certain supplements (like calcium or vitamin D) for a few days before testing, as they can affect results.
How the Test Is Performed
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a slight sting, but the procedure is quick and typically painless. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
While specific reference ranges vary by lab, higher-than-normal levels of vitamin D binding protein might indicate conditions like nephrotic syndrome or certain liver diseases. Lower-than-normal levels could be associated with kidney function issues or other metabolic disorders. Your results will be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Vitamin D binding protein plays a role in transporting vitamin D in the bloodstream. Abnormal levels may suggest underlying health concerns, such as kidney disease, liver disease, or conditions affecting protein synthesis. It can also be part of a broader assessment for vitamin D deficiency or its effects on bone health and immune function.
Short name
Vitamin D Binding Protein
Frequently asked questions
What causes vitamin D binding protein levels to change?
Is there a simple way to check my vitamin D binding protein levels at home?
Can vitamin D binding protein levels be affected by diet?
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