What is a total protein test?
A total serum protein test measures protein in the blood. It also measures the amounts of two major groups of proteins: albumin and globulin.
Why is a total protein test done in children?
Albumin is tested to:
- See how well the liver and kidneys are working.
- Find out if your child's diet contains enough protein.
- Help find the cause of swelling of the ankles or belly. The test can also find the cause of fluid that builds up in the lungs. This fluid may cause shortness of breath.
Globulin is tested to find out how well your child's body is able to fight off infection.
How is your child's total protein test done?
A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.
How do you prepare for a total protein test?
In general, there's nothing you have to do before this test, unless your doctor tells you to.
What do the results of a total serum protein test mean?
Each lab has a different range for what's normal. Your lab report should show the range that your lab uses for each test. The normal range is just a guide. Your doctor will also look at your results based on your age, health, and other factors. A value that isn't in the normal range may still be normal for you.
High values
High albumin levels may be caused by:
- Severe dehydration.
High globulin levels may be caused by:
- Diseases of the blood, such as multiple myeloma, Hodgkin lymphoma, leukemia, macroglobulinemia, or hemolytic anemia.
- An autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, autoimmune hepatitis, or sarcoidosis.
- Kidney disease.
- Liver disease.
- Tuberculosis.
Low values
Low albumin levels may be caused by:
- A poor diet (malnutrition).
- Kidney disease.
- Liver disease.
- An autoimmune disease, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
- Gastrointestinal malabsorption syndromes, such as sprue or Crohn's disease.
- Hodgkin lymphoma.
- Uncontrolled diabetes.
- Hyperthyroidism.
- Heart failure.
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