Menu

An expert resource for medical professionals
Provided FREE as a service to women’s health

The Alliance for
Global Women’s Medicine
A worldwide fellowship of health professionals working together to
promote, advocate for and enhance the Welfare of Women everywhere

Welfare of Women

The Global Library of Women’s Medicine
Clinical guidance and resources

A vast range of expert online resources. A FREE and entirely CHARITABLE site to support women’s healthcare professionals

The Global Academy of Women’s Medicine
Teaching, research and Diplomates Association

Menu

Laboratory Tests

This section provides detailed information on a wide range of laboratory tests relevant to women's medicine

A rapid reference

Serum Protein (TOTAL)

Serum proteins are primarily albumin (50-60%, produced by the liver), but also include globulins, and other proteins. 

Serum proteins:

  • Maintain water balance in the blood through osmotic pressure
  • Transport blood components and nutritional elements
  • Help the immune system
  • Help with coagulation

Increased protein levels may be seen in:

  • Dehydration
  • Liver disease
  • Tuberculosis
  • Lupus
  • Collagen vascular disease
  • Some cancers
  • Hemoconcentration

Decreased protein levels may be seen in:

  • Liver disease (decreased production)
  • Malnutrition (decreased production)
  • Diarrhea (increased loss)
  • Renal disease (increased loss)
  • Severe burns (increased loss)
  • Hemorrhage (increased loss)
  • Pregnancy (dilutional)

Normal Values*

Men-Women 3.8-5.0 g/dl 38-50 g/L
Pregnancy 3.0-4.0 g/dl 38-50 g/L

*These are general values taken from a variety of sources. The actual normal values may vary from lab to lab and from one type of testing protocol to another.