Yashoda Hospitals > Diagnostics > Globulin Test

What is Globulin Test?

Globulins is a kind of protein found in the bloodstream. Your immune system produces them in your liver. Globulins are involved in liver function, blood coagulation, and protection against infection. Globulins are divided into four categories. 

  • Alpha 1
  • Alpha 2
  • Beta 
  • Gamma  

There are several types of globulin test:

  1. Total protein test: The globulin and albumin proteins are measured in this blood test. If your protein levels are low, you may be suffering from liver or renal illness.
  2. Serum protein electrophoresis: Gamma globulins and other proteins in your blood are measured in this blood test. It can be used to diagnose a range of illnesses, including immune system problems and multiple myeloma.

What is the Globulin Test used for?

The Globulin Test is used to help in the diagnosis of various conditions, including liver diseases, kidney diseases, nutritional problems, immune system disorders, and certain types of cancer. By measuring the levels of globulin proteins in the blood, the test provides valuable information about the functioning of these organ systems and the overall health of an individual. Consulting a healthcare professional is important for proper interpretation and follow-up actions based on the test results.

Understanding the test results of the Globulin Test

The globulin test measures the levels of globulin proteins in the blood. Low globulin levels may indicate liver or kidney disease, while high levels can be caused by infections, inflammatory conditions, or immune disorders. Elevated globulin levels can also be associated with certain cancers, such as Hodgkin’s disease, multiple myeloma, and malignant lymphoma. Consult a healthcare professional for accurate interpretation and further evaluation based on individual circumstances.

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    References

      • Bird JM; Investigating an incidental finding of a paraprotein. BMJ. 2012 May 4344:e3033. doi: 10.1136/bmj.e3033.

       

      • Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS); Melbourne Haematology

       

      • Serum globulin electrophoresis; MedlinePlus

       

      • Busher JT; Serum Albumin and Globulin. Clinical Methods: The History, Physical, and Laboratory Examinations. 3rd edition. Boston: Butterworths 1990. Chapter 101.

       

      • Maes M, Hendriks D, Van Gastel A, Demedts P, Wauters A, Neels H, Janca A, Scharpé S. Effects of psychological stress on serum immunoglobulin, complement and acute phase

       

      • protein concentrations in normal volunteers. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 1997 Aug;22(6):397-409. doi: 10.1016/s0306-4530(97)00042-5. PMID: 9364619.

       

      • AIDSinfo [Internet]. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Gamma Globulin.

       

       

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Your doctor may order a globulin test as part of a routine examination or to assist in diagnosing a specific condition. The test is often performed along with a total protein test to evaluate liver health. Symptoms such as jaundice, vomiting, nausea, itching, fatigue, and appetite loss may prompt the need for this test. Additionally, a serum protein electrophoresis test can help identify immune system disorders like allergies, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple myeloma.

    A healthcare expert will collect a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a fine needle during this blood test. A tiny amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial once the needle is placed. When the needle goes in or out, it may hurt a bit. It normally takes less than five minutes to do this task.

    In adults, the normal range for protein globulin levels is typically between 2.3 and 3.4 grams per deciliter (g/dL) or 23 and 34 grams per liter (g/L). The total protein level, including both albumin and globulin, should generally range from 6.4 to 8.3 grams per deciliter (g/dL) or 64 to 83 grams per liter (g/L). These reference ranges may slightly vary depending on the laboratory and measurement methods used.

    Low blood globulin levels can be caused by various factors, including kidney disease, liver dysfunction, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and acute hemolytic anemia. Additionally, low globulin levels can indicate difficulties in digesting or absorbing proteins ingested through the digestive system. Proper evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary to determine the underlying cause of low globulin levels.

    Elevated globulin levels, often associated with liver injury, may present with common symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), itching, nausea, fatigue, unexpected weight loss, and swelling around the eyes, stomach, or legs. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

    It is crucial to consult your doctor for guidance on managing high globulin levels. Treatment involves addressing the underlying condition causing the elevation. Additionally, lifestyle measures such as regular exercise, staying hydrated, limiting alcohol intake, and stress reduction techniques can help lower globulin levels. Your healthcare provider will provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation.

    Globulins serve important functions in the body. Alpha globulins transport hormones and vitamins, while beta globulins aid in lipid and hormone transportation, as well as blood clotting. Gamma globulins, which include antibodies, play a crucial role in the immune system by recognizing and neutralizing foreign substances. Evaluating globulin levels can provide insight into overall health and help diagnose certain conditions.

    A high level of alpha-1 globulin proteins may indicate several conditions, including acute inflammatory illnesses, chronic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and certain types of cancer.

    High globulin levels are generally associated with underlying conditions, so the side effects depend on the specific cause. For example, due to chronic inflammation, side effects may include fatigue, joint pain, and fever.

    High globulin levels typically indicate an underlying health condition. The consequences of elevated globulin levels depend on the specific cause, which can range from inflammation and infections to autoimmune disorders and certain diseases.