Albumin/Globulin Ratio Test
About Albumin/globulin ratio test:
Albumin and Globulin are the two most important proteins present in our blood serum. Albumin is produced by the liver whereas, globulin is produced by our immune system. These two proteins together help in the metabolism as well as make the immune system stronger. The ratio of albumin to globulin concentration in blood serum is termed as Albumin to Globulin ratio (A:G ratio).
Albumin/globulin ratio test helps in determining the albumin to globulin concentrations in the blood. If the results of this test are abnormal, then it is an indication of some serious health condition such as kidney disease or liver disease.
When and to whom this test is indicated for?
This test is indicated if you have symptoms that may exhibit abnormal protein level, such as
Swelling in the feet, ankles, legs or abdomen (Due to extra fluids in the tissues)
Fatigue
Unexplained weight loss
Loss of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Jaundice
Blood in urine
Test preparation:
No special preparations are required for Albumin/globulin ratio test.
Your healthcare provider will draw blood sample from a vein in your arm, with the help of a needle. After needle insertion, a small amount of blood is collected as sample in a test tube. You might feel a little sting or bruise during sample collection. Nonetheless, it subsides within few minutes to hours.
Interpretation of results
The results for the albumin/globulin ratio are given as normal, low or high. The refence ranges are gives as below:
|
Indication |
Reference range |
|
Normal |
1.1 – 2.5 |
|
High |
>2.5 |
|
Low |
<1.1 |
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Generally, albumins are a little higher compared to globulins in the body. Therefore, the albumin to globulin ratio is always a little higher than 1.
Deviations from normal ranges indicate:
- Low A:G ratio may be caused by an autoimmune disease (lupus), liver diseases (cirrhosis), and kidney diseases.
- High A:G levels may be caused due to genetic conditions or certain types of blood cancers such as multiple myeloma or leukaemia.
FAQs
What is the need of Albumin/Globulin ratio test and when is it indicated?
The albumin/globulin ratio can help your healthcare provider to understand how well your body is able to fight off diseases. Moreover, it supports homeostasis. The A:G ratio can be used to build an effective treatment plan and track the patient's recovery while guarding against infections. It is indicated in the diagnosis of the following conditions:
·        Viral or bacterial infections
·        Autoimmune diseases such as lupus
·        Liver diseases
·        Kidney diseases       Â
·        Obesity-associated conditions
I am severely dehydrated. Can it affect the results of A:G ratio?
Yes, the A/G ratio test results are significantly impacted by dehydration. Low bodily water levels indicate dehydration. Because there is not enough of a water-protein balance, low water levels will cause serum proteins to concentrate. As a result, the values will rise above the normal levels.
Should I be fasting before undergoing A:G ratio test?
No, you need not fast before undergoing A:G ratio test. A:G ratio test could be done any time of the day without making any special preparations for the test.
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for A:G ratio test?
The test results for A:G ratio test will be given out in 1 to 2 working days after the sample collection. However, it might take a little longer at times.
What can affect the results of albumin/globulin ratio?
Certain medications, such as insulin, growth hormones, etc., can affect the test results of the albumin/globulin ratio. Apart from medications, being pregnant, having serious burns, and eating a low-protein diet may also affect the albumin/globulin test results.
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