What is a Globulin Test?
Globulins are proteins found in the blood. The immune system creates them in the liver. Globulins are crucial for liver function, blood clotting, and infection resistance.
- Total protein test : This test determines globulin and albumin protein in the blood. Low protein levels may indicate liver or kidney disease.
- Serum protein electrophoresis : This blood test determines the concentration of each type of protein in the blood, including Gamma globulins. The levels of specific globulins indicate how well the immune system works. As a result, this test can be used to diagnose multiple myeloma, and various other conditions.
What is the globulin test used for?
Globulin testing can help with the diagnosis of various diseases, including:
Why do I need a globulin test?
The doctor may prescribe globulin tests in the following conditions:
- As part of the routine examination
- To keep track of any liver or kidney issues.
- When you experience specific symptoms that are globulin test related.
A comprehensive metabolic panel, which is often a component of a standard examination, may include a total protein test. If you exhibit kidney or liver disease signs, the doctor might recommend the test.
A total protein test may be performed together with other tests to evaluate how well the liver is functioning if the doctor suspects a liver problem. They are known as liver function tests. The doctor may prescribe these tests if you have any of the following symptoms or are at risk for liver disease:
- Lack of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Frequent itching
- Jaundice
- Dark-colored urine and light-colored stool
- Weakness
- Swelling and pain in the abdomen (belly)
- Swelling in your ankles and legs
A serum protein electrophoresis test determines the concentrations of several globulin subtypes and other proteins in the blood. This test may be prescribed by the doctor to identify problems with the immune system, such as:
- Multiple myeloma, a type of cancer
- Allergies
- Autoimmune diseases
What happens during a globulin test?
Globulin testing is similar to blood tests. A blood test involves a healthcare provider taking blood from a vein in the arm with a small needle. After the insertion of the needle, a small amount of blood will be collected in a test tube or vial. One may feel a slight sting when the needle goes in or out. This normally takes under five minutes.
How to prepare for the globulin test?
A globulin blood test does not require any extra preparation. However, if the doctor has requested further tests on the blood sample, people may need to fast for hours before the test.
Are there any risks involved in the test?
A blood test poses no risk. Some people may experience pain or bruises where the needle was inserted, but most of these symptoms will go away shortly.
What do the results mean?
Low globulin levels may indicate liver or renal illness, as well as malnutrition. High globulin levels may indicate:
- Inflammatory disease
- Infection
- Immune disorders
- Certain cancers, such as malignant lymphoma, multiple myeloma, or Hodgkin lymphoma
Certain medications, dehydration, or other conditions can also cause abnormal readings.
