Total Protein and Albumin/Globulin (A/G) Ratio Test
This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood and compares two types: albumin and globulin. It helps check how well your liver and kidneys are working and whether you are getting enough nutrients.
What this test measures
Total protein and albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, including albumin and globulin. It also compares the amount of albumin to globulin (A/G ratio).
What your results mean
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.
Higher-than-normal results
According to MedlinePlus, high total protein may be a sign of an infection such as HIV or viral hepatitis, or multiple myeloma (a type of blood cancer). A high A/G ratio may be caused by certain genetic disorders or leukemia.
Lower-than-normal results
According to MedlinePlus, low total protein may be a sign of liver disease, kidney disease, malnutrition, or a malabsorption syndrome (such as celiac disease or Crohn's disease). A low A/G ratio may be caused by an autoimmune disease (like lupus), liver disease (including cirrhosis), or kidney disease.
Frequently asked questions
What is a total protein and A/G ratio test?
It measures the total amount of protein in your blood and compares albumin to globulin (A/G ratio). It helps check liver and kidney function and nutritional status.
What do the two types of protein, albumin and globulin, do?
Albumin helps keep fluid from leaking out of blood vessels and moves hormones, medicines, and vitamins. Globulins help fight infection and move nutrients.
Why might my provider order this test?
To help diagnose kidney disease, liver disease, or nutritional problems. It is often part of a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP).
What does a low total protein level mean?
It may be a sign of liver disease, kidney disease, malnutrition, or a malabsorption syndrome like celiac disease or Crohn's disease.
What does a high total protein level mean?
It may be a sign of an infection such as HIV or viral hepatitis, or multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer.
Related lab tests
Sources
- MedlinePlus: Total Protein and Albumin/Globulin (A/G) Ratio — NIH MedlinePlus
Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.