LFT Biomarker
Collection Type: Blood
Related System: LFT
The albumin:globulin (A/G) ratio compares the blood concentration of albumin (the main plasma protein made by the liver) to total globulins (a group of proteins including antibodies). The test measures the relative amounts of these protein groups and is calculated from measured serum albumin and total protein. Abnormal ratios can suggest liver disease, kidney loss of protein, immune disorders, chronic inflammation, or certain blood cancers. Symptoms prompting testing include jaundice, fatigue, edema, recurrent infections, unexplained bleeding or weight loss. Normal ratios vary with age (neonates and elderly can differ) and decrease in pregnancy due to hemodilution.
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Q: What does it mean when albumin globulin ratio is high?
A: An elevated albumin-to-globulin (A/G) ratio means there is relatively more albumin or fewer globulins in the blood. Common causes include dehydration (concentrating albumin) or reduced globulin production from immunodeficiencies, certain leukemias, or protein-losing conditions. It is a nonspecific finding that prompts follow-up testing—total protein, serum protein electrophoresis and immunoglobulin levels, plus liver and kidney function—to identify the cause.
Q: How do you treat a low albumin/globulin ratio?
A: Treatment targets the underlying cause: evaluate for liver or kidney disease, infections, inflammation, malnutrition, or plasma‑cell disorders. Management may include nutritional support and a higher‑protein diet, treating infections or inflammatory conditions, disease‑specific therapy (liver/renal/oncology), and monitoring labs. Albumin infusions are reserved for severe hypoalbuminemia; follow up with a specialist for targeted therapy.
Q: What happens if my Ag ratio is high?
A: A high A/G (albumin-to‑globulin) ratio usually means relatively low globulin levels or unusually high albumin. Causes include decreased immunoglobulin production (primary immunodeficiency), certain blood cancers (some leukemias), protein loss, steroid use, or dehydration. It can indicate immune problems or other underlying disease. Discuss results with your clinician—further tests (immunoglobulin levels, serum protein electrophoresis, CBC, liver tests) will clarify.
Q: What is the importance of ag ratio?
A: The albumin-to-globulin (A/G) ratio evaluates liver, kidney, nutritional and immune health by comparing serum albumin and globulin. Abnormal ratios help detect chronic liver disease, nephrotic syndrome, protein‑losing states, immune disorders or monoclonal gammopathies; a low A/G often reflects elevated globulins or low albumin, while a high A/G suggests low globulins. It's a screening tool used with other tests to guide diagnosis and monitoring.
Q: Should I worry if my albumin is high?
A: Isolated high albumin is uncommon and usually reflects dehydration (concentrated blood), a lab variation, or less often high protein intake or rare conditions. It rarely signals a primary problem alone. Repeat testing after rehydration and discuss persistent elevation or accompanying symptoms (fever, weight loss, edema) with your clinician to check for underlying causes. Urgent concern is uncommon but evaluation is recommended.
Q: How to reduce albumin-globulin ratio?
A: To lower an elevated albumin-to-globulin ratio, work with your clinician to identify and treat the underlying cause. Measures may include correcting dehydration, improving nutrition (adequate protein), treating infections or immune disorders, managing liver or kidney disease, and adjusting contributing medications. In some cases immunoglobulin therapy or specialist care is needed. Repeat blood tests to monitor response and avoid self-treatment.