Total Globulin

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Latest Edit: Hector 2014-03-21 (EDT)

See Also Lab Tests


Total serum globulin consists of individual globulin fractions called alpha 1, alpha 2, beta and gamma fractions. Thus the total globulin level is greatly affected by increases or decreases in one or more of these fractions. They are produced in the liver, the retoculoendothelial system, and other tissues. The function of globulins is to transport substances in the blood. They also make up the antibody system, clotting proteins and complement.[1]


Discussion

  • As inflammatory, degenerative, or infectious processes are associated with an increased production of antibodies, measuring the total serum globulin is a useful way to assess these processes.
  • Total globulin, along with subjective indicators, can also help to confirm an underlying digestive problem of an inflammatory or infectious nature.
  • Protein electrophoresis is a method widely used to identify the specific globulin that is responsible for the total serum globulin increase or decrease.

Patient Preparation

  • No specific preparation is required.
  • Factors which can cause increased levels
  • None noted
  • Factors which can cause decreased levels
  • None noted

Clinical Implications

Ranges: The following are the reference ranges for this lab. However, lab ranges can vary by laboratory and country. [2]

Standard U.S. Units Standard International Units
Conventional Laboratory Range 2.0-3.9 g/dL 20-39 g/L
Optimal Range 2.4-2.8 g/dL 24-28 g/L
Alarm Ranges < 2.0 or > 3.5 g/dL < 20 or > 35 g/L

High levels indicate:

Low levels indicate:

Associated Tests

References

  1. Pagana Kathleen D, Pagana Timothy J, (1998) Mosby's Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests, Mosby, Inc
  2. Weatherby Dicken., Ferguson Scott. Blood Chemistry and CBC Analysis: Clinical Laboratory Testing from a Functional Perspective, Bear Mountain