Albumin/Globulin Ratio

The normal range for albumin/globulin ratio is over 1 , usually around 1 to 2. That's because there's a bit more albumin than globulin in serum protein. If your body is producing too much or too little of either protein, your A/G ratio will be classified as high or low.

Total Protein and Albumin/Globulin (A/G) Ratio

What is a total protein and albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio test?

A total protein and albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio test measures the total amount of protein in your blood. There are two major types of protein in the blood:

• Albumin, which helps keep blood from leaking out of blood vessels. It also helps move hormones, medicines, vitamins, and other important substances throughout the body. Albumin is made in the liver.
• Globulins, which help fight infection and move nutrients throughout the body. Some globulins are made by the liver. Others are made by the immune system.

The test also compares the amount of albumin in your blood to the amount of globulin. The comparison is called the albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio.

If your total protein levels or A/G ratio results are not normal, it can be a sign of a serious health problem.

Other names: total serum protein, TP albumin/globulin ratio

What is it used for?

A total protein and A/G ratio test is often included as part of a comprehensive metabolic panel, a test that measures proteins and other substances in the blood. It may also be used to help diagnose kidney disease, liver disease, or nutritional problems.

Why do I need a total protein and A/G ratio test?

You may get this test as part of a comprehensive metabolic panel, which is often included in a routine checkup. You may also need this test if you have symptoms that indicate abnormal protein levels. These include:

• Swelling in the feet, ankles, legs, and/or abdomen, which is caused by extra fluid in your tissues
• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). This is a common symptom of liver disease.
• Blood in the urine, a common symptom of kidney disease

What happens during a total protein and A/G ratio test?

A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.

Will I need to do anything to prepare for this test?

You don't need any special preparations for a total protein and A/G ratio test.

Are there any risks to this test?

There is very little risk to having a blood test. There may be slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.

What do the results mean?

Your results will show whether you have normal, low, or high total protein levels. They will also show if you have a normal, low, or high albumin to globulin (A/G) ratio.