**Index**
Within the tests included in a blood analysis, an important part is the evaluation of plasma proteins.
In this way, the analysis assesses the levels of the main proteins circulating in the blood: albumin and globulins.
In turn, globulins can be divided into four main fractions:
- alpha-1 globulin,
- alpha-2 globulin,
- beta globulin, and
- gamma globulin.
Plasma Protein Analysis
Proteins have specific electrical properties. To separate them, the technique of electrophoresis is used. This involves subjecting the proteins to an electric field, which allows them to be separated based on their size, shape, and electrical charge. In this way, their distribution and relative quantity are obtained, providing information about the possible presence of diseases.
In addition to the electrophoretic pattern, the total protein amount can be measured, which normally ranges between 55–80 g/L.
High Albumin
Albumin is the most abundant protein in the blood, and its normal values range between 35 and 55 g/L.
High albumin levels may indicate dehydration. Conversely, values below normal can be associated with malnutrition, severe burns, kidney disease or liver disease, autoimmune disorders, or cancerous processes, among others.
High Alpha-1 Globulin
An increase in this protein fraction can be due to autoimmune diseases, pregnancy, an infectious disease, or cancer. A decrease in alpha-1 globulin can occur in cases of kidney or liver disease, or due to alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, a genetic disorder that can cause lung problems.
High Alpha-2 Globulin
High alpha-2 globulin levels can be observed in cases of autoimmune diseases, cancer, kidney disease, heart attack, and tuberculosis, among others. Its decrease may be associated with liver disease, leukemia, hemolytic anemia, and hypothyroidism.
High Beta Globulin
High beta globulin levels can be due to anemia, hyperlipidemia, or liver disease, such as cirrhosis. A decrease in beta globulin may be caused by kidney or liver disease or by blood clotting disorders.
High Gamma Globulin
Gamma globulins are the proteins known as antibodies. These proteins are responsible for defending the body against various harmful agents. An increase in gamma globulin is associated with chronic infections, autoimmune diseases, certain types of leukemia, multiple myeloma, liver disease, or Hodgkin’s lymphoma. A decrease in the percentage of this protein fraction may be due to kidney disease or hypogammaglobulinemia, a type of deficiency in the immune system.
