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Total protein - description and reference ranges

What is it?

Total Protein level is extremely important in diagnostics. It is a combined measure of two types of protein: Albumin and Globulin.

TP is a marker for malabsorption, liver disfunction, malnutrition, kidney disfunction, immune abnormalities or various types of infection.

Reference ranges

If your indicative TP level is lower than the reference range for our laboratory:

This means that you may have a liver or kidney problem, or it may be that protein is not being digested or absorbed properly.

Both Albumin and Globulin levels need to be considered as part of this measurement.

Oestrogen and some other medication may decrease protein levels.

Please discuss this result with your GP.

If your indicative TP level is higher than the reference range for our laboratory:

High total protein level may indicate dehydration or various types of cancer, leading to a build up of too much abnormal protein.

Medication that may increase your protein levels include growth hormone drugs, various steroids, androgens, insulin and progesterone.

Please discuss this result with your GP.

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