Questions and Answers
What is the primary organ responsible for synthesizing plasma proteins?
What is the main exception to the liver's role in synthesizing plasma proteins?
What is the function of albumin in maintaining plasma osmotic pressure?
What is the primary reason for measuring total protein levels?
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What is the name of the protein fraction that is not measured in the total protein test?
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What is the primary function of immunoglobulins in plasma proteins?
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What is the basis of the assay principle in protein estimation?
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When is a total protein test typically requested?
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What is the wavelength used in the assay procedure?
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What is a possible next step if total protein levels are found to be abnormal?
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What is the temperature used in the assay procedure?
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What is the expected value of total protein concentration in adults?
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What is the cause of hyperproteinemia in certain types of lymphoma?
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What can increase total protein levels during blood collection?
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Which of the following medications may affect total protein levels?
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Study Notes
Total Protein in Serum
- Proteins are organic macromolecular compounds essential for body growth and health.
- Plasma proteins are mainly synthesized by the liver, except for γ-globulins, which are synthesized by plasma cells in lymph nodes, spleen, and bone marrow.
Functions of Plasma Proteins
- Transport: albumin, prealbumin, and globulins
- Maintain plasma osmotic pressure: albumin
- Defense: immunoglobulins and complement
- Clotting and fibrinolysis: thrombin and plasmin
Total Protein Measurement
- Measures the concentration of all proteins in plasma, excluding fibrinogen
- Reflects nutritional status and helps diagnose kidney disease, liver disease, and other conditions
When is it Requested?
- To investigate liver or kidney disorders
- To identify the cause of abnormal fluid pooling in tissue (oedema)
- As part of multiple myeloma investigation
Assay Principle
- Based on the biuret reaction, where divalent copper reacts with peptide bonds of protein under alkaline conditions to form a pink to purple biuret complex
Procedure
- Wavelength: 530-570 nm
- Cuvette: 1 cm light path
- Temperature: 37°C or 15-25°C
- Sample: serum without preparation
- Mix and incubate for 5 min at 37°C or 10 min at room temperature
- Read absorbance (A) against the blank
Calculation
- Total Protein concentration = expected value
- Adult: 6.3-8.3 g/dl
- Child: 6.0-8.0 g/dl
Result Interpretation
Hypoproteinemia
- Causes: prolonged starvation, malnutrition, malabsorption, liver cirrhosis or failure, excessive bleeding, extensive burns
- Symptoms: low total protein levels (< 6.0 g/dl)
Hyperproteinemia
- Causes: increased synthesis due to infections, certain cancers, dehydration, and other conditions
- Symptoms: high total protein levels (> 8.3 g/dl)
Important Notes
- Prolonged application of a tourniquet or standing during blood collection can increase total protein levels
- Certain medications, such as oestrogens, steroids, and oral contraceptives, may affect total protein levels
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Description
This quiz covers the concept of total protein in serum, its importance, and determination methods. It's essential for understanding body growth and health, and plasma proteins synthesized by the liver.
