: Prealbumin (Transthyretin) [Mass Concentration] in Serum or Plasma by Immunoassay

: What Is Prealbumin?

: Prealbumin, now more often called transthyretin, is a protein produced by the liver and released into the bloodstream. It transports thyroid hormones and vitamin A (retinol) through the body. Because it has a short lifespan in the blood compared with many other proteins, its level can change relatively quickly, which is why it is sometimes used to help assess short-term nutritional status.

: Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?

: Your healthcare provider may order a prealbumin test to help evaluate nutritional status, especially when there is concern about protein deficiency or malnutrition. It may also be used to help monitor how well a person is responding to nutritional support or to look for signs of liver or inflammatory conditions. Results are always interpreted alongside your medical history, physical exam, and other tests.

: How the Sample Is Collected

: This test uses a small sample of blood, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. The specimen is serum or plasma, and the laboratory measures prealbumin using an immunoassay method. In most cases no special preparation is needed, though your provider may give you specific instructions if other tests are being done at the same time.

: What the Results Can Mean

: Prealbumin levels can be influenced by many factors, including recent food intake, inflammation or infection, liver disease, kidney disease, and thyroid problems. Because of this, a single result is not a diagnosis on its own. Your provider will consider the result together with your overall health, other lab values, and your clinical situation. Do not change your diet or medications based on a result without talking to your care team.