Total protein

The primary sites for the synthesis of plasma proteins are the spleen, lymph nodes, liver, and plasma cells. Both the overall protein concentration and the percentage of each particular fraction might fluctuate dramatically from normal levels during the course of a disease. Diseases and conditions include blood loss, sprue, nephrotic syndrome, severe burns, salt retention syndrome, and Kwashiorkor (acute protein shortage) can all lead to hypoproteinemia. Conditions like multiple myeloma and extreme dehydration can both result in hyperproteinemia. Variations in the percentage of a single plasma protein fraction may be the cause of changes in the relative percentage of plasma proteins. A common marker of the distribution of albumin and globulin fractions is the A/G ratio. Significant alterations in this proportion are discernible in liver cirrhosis, glomerulonephritis, nephrotic syndrome, acute hepatitis, lupus erythematosus, and specific acute and chronic inflammations. In addition to other metabolic or nutritional issues, total protein measurements and protein electrophoresis are utilised in the diagnosis and treatment of a number of diseases affecting the liver, kidney, or bone marrow.