Globulin

Serum Globulin Test is used to measure the level of globulin proteins in your blood. Globulins are major proteins that are produced in the liver. These proteins are also produced by the immune system to fight against foreign substances. It helps in blood clotting, fighting against infection and proper liver function. Globulins can be divided into 4 categories. They are alpha 1, alpha 2, beta, and gamma globulins.

Why this test is performed?

This test is one among many tests used to evaluate your liver function. Your doctor may ask to perform this test if you have an existing liver disorder or if you experience any signs and symptoms of liver damage such as yellowing of skin or eyes, dark colored urine, nausea and/or vomiting, itchy skin, lack of energy, pain and swelling in the abdomen etc. You may also be advised to perform this test as part of your regular checkup and to diagnose certain conditions such as kidney disease, autoimmune disorders, certain types of cancer or nutritional problems. Few more additional tests may also be performed along with this test to assess your liver function.

If you have a family history of liver or kidney problems, your doctor may ask you to perform this test on a 6-monthly basis or a yearly basis. Patients with liver or kidney disorders should perform this test on a regular basis, as instructed by the doctor.

If the test results fall in the normal reference range generally no medical intervention is necessary.

If the test result shows low globulin levels in the blood may indicate a problem with liver or kidney function. Signs and symptoms of liver damage are yellowing of skin or eyes, dark colored urine, nausea and/or vomiting, itchy skin, lack of energy, pain and swelling in the abdomen etc. Signs and symptoms of kidney damage are a reduced amount of urine, shortness of breath, swelling of legs, ankles, and feet, weakness, confusion etc.

If the test result shows high globulin levels in the blood may indicate infections or inflammation such as HIV, viral hepatitis B or C, or immune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis. Increased globulin levels in some individuals may also be a sign of certain types of cancer such as Hodgkin's disease, multiple myeloma, or malignant lymphoma. If you get abnormal test results it can be due to dehydration, or use of certain medicines.

If you have higher or lower than normal levels of globulin in blood consult your doctor for further instructions. Based on the test results, your doctor may advise appropriate medical treatments, lifestyle modifications, or further diagnostic tests.