• Total serum protein levels measure the total amount of protein in serum (serum is the fluid portion of blood, without fibrinogen). Total plasma protein levels measure the protein in plasma (fluid portion of blood with fibrinogen). • Proteins in the serum are composed of albumin, antibodies, complement, different enzymes, coagulation factors, and transport proteins, with albumin and globulins making up the vast majority. • Values can vary by breed and by age, but increased levels are consistent with dehydration, hypovolemia (albumin), chronic disease, neoplasia (lymphosarcoma and hepatic carcinoma) (globulin), acute inflammation (globulin), infection, prolonged hyperthermia, and anabolic steroids. • In female birds, a higher level of total protein can be observed during egg laying.
Protein, Total
Definition
Clinical Applications
Causes of Abnormally High Levels
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Protein, Total
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