Total serum protein measurement is used to diagnose and monitor the treatment of many pathological conditions involving the liver, kidneys, or bone marrow, as well as metabolic and nutritional disorders.
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Total serum protein reflects the total amount of serum albumin and globulins. Serum proteins are synthesized in the liver and from the mononuclear cells of the lymph nodes, spleen, and bone marrow. They comprise more than 100 substances and are grouped as albumin and globulin. Serum proteins are required to regulate colloid osmotic pressure, including coagulation factors, antibodies, enzymes, hormones, growth factors, and pH buffers.
The two most common causes of changes in total serum protein are changes in serum water volume and changes in the concentration of one or more circulating proteins.
Possible Interpretations of Pathological Values
- Increase: Amyloidosis, Addison's disease, autoimmune collagen disorders, chronic infections, dehydration (relative increase), diarrhea, Franklin disease, hemolysis, liver disease, macroglobulinemia, multiple myeloma, visceral leishmaniasis, kidney disease, sarcoidosis, vomiting, injuries. Medications: Clofibrate, corticosteroids, corticotropin, dextran, growth hormone, heparin, insulin, levothyroxine, contrast agents, somatropin, sulfobromophthalein, thyrotropin, tolbutamide
- Decrease: Acute cholecystitis, burns, chronic glomerulonephritis, cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, Crohn's disease, diarrhea, edema, essential hypertension, dermatitis, hemorrhage, liver disease (severe), Hodgkin's disease, hyperthyroidism, hypoalbuminemia, hypogammaglobulinemia, infectious hepatitis, kwashiorkor, leukemia (monocytic, myeloid), malabsorption, malnutrition, nephrosis, nephrotic syndrome, peptic ulcer, pregnancy, protein-losing enteropathies, celiac disease, ulcerative colitis, water retention. Medications: Intravenous fluids containing glucose, oral contraceptives, pyrazinamide, salicylates
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most critical parameter for diagnosing and monitoring all pathological conditions. Between 70 to 80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correctly interpreting laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased."
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be analyzed based on each case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon, we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and contact your doctor to ensure you receive the best possible medical care.
