Albumin-Globulin Ratio (AGR)
Understanding Albumin-Globulin Ratio
The Albumin-Globulin Ratio (AGR) is an important marker of nutritional status and inflammation. It's calculated by dividing serum albumin by serum globulin levels, where globulin is derived from the difference between total protein and albumin. Many illnesses can throw off the balance between albumin and globulin in your blood. Read on to learn what results are considered normal, the causes of high and low ratios, and what you can do to fix them.
What is an Albumin/Globulin Ratio Test?
The albumin/globulin ratio (A/G ratio for short) is a test that compares the concentrations of albumin and globulin in the blood. Albumin and globulin are proteins that are naturally found in the serum, the liquid part of your blood that doesn't include blood cells or clotting components. An imbalance in the ratio of albumin to globulin may signify ongoing inflammation, liver problems, or in rare cases immunodeficiency. There is emerging evidence that a low ratio (less albumin and more globulin) may be associated with the risk of cancer and may also predict worse outcomes in cancer and heart disease patients.
Normal Albumin/Globulin Ratio
- Normal range: 1.1 to 2.5
- Values may vary slightly between laboratories
Your blood usually contains a little more albumin than globulin, which is why a normal ratio is slightly higher than 1.
Clinical Significance
Low AGR (< 1.1)
May indicate:
- Chronic inflammation
- Malnutrition
- Liver disease
- Autoimmune conditions
- Certain cancers
High AGR (> 2.5)
May indicate:
- Dehydration
- Some medications' effects
- Certain medical conditions
Important Considerations
- Results should be interpreted by a healthcare professional
- AGR should be considered alongside other clinical findings
- Single measurements may not reflect long-term status
- Regular monitoring may be necessary for chronic conditions
When to Seek Medical Attention
Consult a healthcare provider if:
- AGR is outside normal range
- You have unexplained symptoms
- You're being monitored for a chronic condition
- You're on medications that affect protein levels
Limitations
This calculator:
- Provides estimates based on input values
- Should not replace laboratory testing
- Must be interpreted within clinical context
- May not be accurate in all scenarios
Tips for Accurate Results
- Use recent laboratory values
- Double-check input numbers
- Ensure correct units selected
- Consider repeat testing if results unexpected
Factors Affecting Albumin-Globulin Ratio
Albumin levels can be affected by
- Nutrition status
- Liver function
- Kidney function
- Inflammation
- Pregnancy
- Medications
Total protein levels can be affected by
- Hydration status
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Inflammatory conditions
- Nutritional status
Clinical Applications
Albumin-Globulin Ratio is particularly useful in:
- Assessing nutritional status
- Monitoring chronic diseases
- Evaluating inflammation
- Predicting prognosis in certain conditions
- Screening for protein abnormalities
Start calculating now to better understand your protein status!
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