Total protein

Determination of total serum protein is a common and accessible method. Examination of the concentration of total protein in the serum provides us with indicative information about the biosynthesis, utilization and excretion of proteins. A change in the composition of serum proteins is caused by various diseases, but only some are manifested by a deviation in the values ​​of the total protein.

The concentration of total protein in the serum can be affected by the following basic factors:


 * hydration status;
 * altering the biosynthesis of one or more specific proteins;
 * rate of loss of one or more specific proteins.

Hypoproteinemia
Hypoproteinemia is a term for a reduced concentration of protein in the serum.

Absolute hypoproteinemia occurs as a result of a reduced amount of protein in the serum due to:
 * increased losses by:
 * kidneys;
 * gastrointestinal tract (e.g. intestinal inflammation);
 * skin (burns);
 * bleeding;
 * to "third space" (e.g. into the abdominal cavity during ascites);
 * reduced protein synthesis in the liver (chronic liver diseases);
 * insufficient protein intake in the case of nutritional disorders.

In relative hypoproteinemia, the normal amount of proteins is preserved, but due to the retention of water and electrolytes, they are "diluted" (state of hyperhydration ). The concentrations of individual proteins are reduced in the same proportion.

Hyperproteinemia
Hyperproteinemia means an increased concentration of total protein in the serum.

Absolute hyperproteinemia is an increase in protein concentration usually caused by increased synthesis of some specific proteins, e.g. immunoglobulins (plasmocytoma).

Relative hyperproteinemia occurs as a result of dehydration of the organism due to insufficient intake or excessive loss of fluids (severe diarrhea, vomiting). The total amount of proteins is preserved and the concentration of individual proteins is increased proportionally.

Principle of determination of total protein
The total protein in the serum is determined by the biuret reaction.

Reference range: Serum total protein concentration (S-total protein): 65-85 g/l

Související články

 * Plazmatické bílkoviny
 * Bílkoviny v séru a moči