Measuring total proteins in the blood reflects a person’s nutritional status and can be used in the diagnosis of kidney, liver and other diseases.If total protein levels change, more tests are needed to identify which specific protein is being modified.so that the correct diagnosis can be made.
Proteins are very important structures for the proper functioning of the body, adopting various forms such as albumin, antibodies and enzymes, performing functions such as disease control, regulation of bodily functions, muscle building and transport of substances throughout the body.
Reference values for people over 3 years of age are
However, these values should be used as a guide and may vary slightly from lab to laboratory.
To perform this test, the measurement is performed on the serum that is extracted from the blood sample, and usually takes between 3 to 8 hours of fasting before taking the sample, however, you should consult the laboratory for more information on preparation for this test.
The test for total proteins can only be part of a routine test, or it may be done in case of recent weight loss, in case of signs and symptoms of kidney or liver disease, or to study fluid buildup in tissues.
Divisions can also be measured, which consist of dividing proteins into two large groups, albumin and the other with the rest, in which most is globulin, to make a more accurate diagnosis.
Changes in protein level values can be indicators of various diseases, heavily dependent on the protein being modified.
Possible causes that lead to a decrease in proteins in the blood include:
In addition, severe malnutrition can also lead to reduced levels of protein in the blood.Find out what to eat to normalize protein levels.
Possible causes that lead to an increase in proteins in the blood include:
While lowering protein levels may be a sign of malnutrition, a protein-rich diet does not increase protein levels in the blood.
Protein can also be quantified in urine, in case of proteinuria, in which the amount of protein is higher than normal, usually proteins cannot pass through glomeruli or renal filters during blood filtration, due to its size, however it is normal to find residues amounts.
However, some situations may result in a temporary increase in protein levels, which can result from exposure to severe cold, heat, high fever, intense physical activity or stress, not being a worry or an increase that lasts longer, which may be a sign of the presence of disorders such as kidney failure, diabetes, hypertension or rheumatoid arthritis For example.Learn more about proteinuria.