Prealbumin, also known as transthyretin, is a protein that is produced by the liver and plays a crucial role in transporting thyroxine (T4) and retinol (vitamin A) in the blood. Measuring prealbumin levels can provide valuable information about a person’s nutritional status, liver function, and overall health. In this article, we will delve into the normal ranges of prealbumin and their significance in accurate diagnosis.
Introduction to Prealbumin
Prealbumin is a protein that is composed of four identical subunits, each with a molecular weight of approximately 14 kilodaltons. It is synthesized by the liver and secreted into the bloodstream, where it binds to T4 and retinol, facilitating their transport to various tissues and organs. Prealbumin levels can be affected by a range of factors, including nutritional status, liver function, and certain medical conditions.
Normal Ranges of Prealbumin
The normal range of prealbumin can vary depending on the laboratory and the specific assay used to measure it. However, the following are general guidelines for prealbumin normal ranges:
- Adults: 15-35 mg/dL (150-350 mg/L)
- Children: 10-30 mg/dL (100-300 mg/L)
- Newborns: 5-15 mg/dL (50-150 mg/L)
Prealbumin levels can fluctuate throughout the day, with peak levels typically occurring in the morning and decreasing by about 10-20% in the evening.
Factors Affecting Prealbumin Levels
Prealbumin levels can be influenced by a range of factors, including:
- Nutritional status: Prealbumin levels can be low in individuals with malnutrition or protein-calorie malnutrition.
- Liver function: Prealbumin levels can be low in individuals with liver disease or cirrhosis.
- Inflammation: Prealbumin levels can be low in individuals with chronic inflammation or infection.
- Thyroid function: Prealbumin levels can be affected by thyroid hormones, with hypothyroidism leading to decreased prealbumin levels and hyperthyroidism leading to increased levels.
Clinical Significance of Prealbumin
Prealbumin levels can provide valuable information about a person’s nutritional status, liver function, and overall health. Low prealbumin levels can indicate malnutrition, liver disease, or inflammation, while high levels can indicate conditions such as hyperthyroidism or dehydration.
Prealbumin in Disease Diagnosis
Prealbumin levels can be used to diagnose a range of conditions, including:
- Malnutrition: Low prealbumin levels can indicate malnutrition or protein-calorie malnutrition.
- Liver disease: Low prealbumin levels can indicate liver disease or cirrhosis.
- Inflammatory bowel disease: Low prealbumin levels can indicate inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
- Thyroid disease: Abnormal prealbumin levels can indicate thyroid disease, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these ranges can provide valuable information about a person’s nutritional status, liver function, and overall health. By understanding the normal ranges of prealbumin and the factors that can affect it, clinicians can use this biomarker to diagnose a range of conditions and monitor treatment effectiveness.
