Prealbumin is a type of protein that is synthesized in the liver and is commonly found in the blood. The prealbumin blood test is a medical test that measures the levels of this protein in the blood.
This test is often used to assess a person's nutritional status, particularly in individuals who are critically ill or undergoing surgery. Low levels of prealbumin in the blood can indicate malnutrition or protein deficiency, while high levels can be a sign of inflammation or infection.
The prealbumin blood test is typically performed by taking a sample of blood from a vein in the arm. The blood is then analyzed in our laboratory to determine the levels of prealbumin.
A normal reference range for prealbumin varies slightly between laboratories, but typically falls between 16 to 40 mg/dL or 160 to 400 mg/L.
Low prealbumin levels may indicate protein-calorie malnutrition, liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic kidney disease, and certain types of cancer. Low levels may also indicate a recent illness, injury, or surgery.
High prealbumin levels may be seen in conditions that cause inflammation, such as infections or autoimmune diseases. Certain medications, such as steroids and growth hormone, can also cause elevated prealbumin levels.
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