Globulin

Globulins are protein molecules found in the blood. This group of proteins are made in the liver. Globulins are vital in the liver, fighting infection and blood clotting. The different types of globulins include:

• Alpha globulin
• Beta globulins
• Gamma globulins

The tests to measure these globulins are:

• Total protein test

  The total protein test measures the total amount of blood protein. The two main proteins found in the blood are albumin and globulins. Low protein levels in the blood may indicate kidney or liver disease.

• Serum protein electrophoresis

  The serum protein electrophoresis test is a blood test that measures the level of each protein in the blood, including different types of globulins. The levels of each globulin give information on the function of your immune system. This test can aid in diagnosing immune system disorders, multiple myeloma – a type of cancer and other conditions.

  Globulin tests are also known as total protein and globulin electrophoresis.

What is the globulin test for?

Globulin tests can help diagnose different conditions, including:

• Kidney disease
• Liver disease or damage
• Certain types of cancer
• Certain autoimmune disorders
• Nutritional problems

Why get a globulin test?

You may have a globulin test:

• During your regular checkup
• To monitor kidney or liver problems
• To diagnose certain conditions when symptoms are present

You may have a total protein test in a comprehensive metabolic panel, usually during a routine checkup. Your healthcare professional may order the total protein test if you experience liver or kidney disease symptoms.

If your healthcare professional thinks you have liver disease, they may recommend a total protein test with other tests to check if your liver is working properly. These tests are known as liver function tests.

The following are liver disease symptoms.

• Lack of appetite
• Fatigue
• Vomiting and nausea
• Frequent itching
• Swelling in the legs and ankles
• Weakness
• Jaundice – a condition that causes yellowing of the eyes and skin
• Swelling or pain in the abdomen
• Dark-coloured urine or light-coloured stool

The globulin electrophoresis test measures the level of the different globulins and other blood proteins. Your doctor may recommend this test to diagnose immune system disorders such as:

• Multiple myeloma
• Allergies
• Autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and lupus

What happens during a globulin test?

Globulin tests require a blood sample. The healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from your vein using a small needle during this blood test. After inserting the needle, the provider will draw blood into the test vial or tube. You may feel a slight sting as the needle goes in and when removing it. The blood collection takes less than five minutes.

Do I need to prepare for the test?

You don’t need any special preparation for a globulin blood test. However, if you need other tests, you may need to fast (not eat and drink) for several hours before the test. Your healthcare provider will inform you if you need any special preparation.

Are there risks?

There is only a slight risk of a blood test, such as bruising and slight pain at the spot the needle was injected. The symptoms usually clear quickly.

What does the result mean?

Low globulin levels may indicate kidney or liver disease or malnutrition. High globulin levels may signify the following.

• Inflammatory disease
• Infection
• Certain cancers like multiple myeloma, malignant lymphoma or Hodgkin lymphoma, also known as Hodgkin’s disease

Dehydration, certain medications and other conditions may also cause abnormal levels of globulins.

Our healthcare professionals can conduct your globulin test. Call us now on 02071830244 to schedule an appointment for the test, or visit our clinic at Suite E, 117a Harley St, Marylebone, London W1G 6AT.