Contents
Globulins are protein fractions, which include: plasminogen, transferrin, ß-lipoproteins, IgM and IgA immunoglobulins. The beta-globulin test is performed in people with impaired immune system or in order to differentiate diseases of the haematopoietic system.
Beta-globulins – definition
Generally, globulins are proteins found in blood plasma. They are part of the total blood protein along with albumin and fibrinogen. Their importance in the body is very important as they affect the immune system but also the transport of fatty acids and hormones. They are the building blocks of all tissues and cells, making up most of the organs. Globulins in the blood are called total proteins. Based proteinogram, which enables the electrophoretic division of proteins, globulins are divided into several types: alpha-1globulin, alpha-2globulin, beta-globulin and gamma-globulin. However, it should be mentioned that globulins are found not only in the blood – we can also find them in the tissues of the body. Their increased concentration may indicate the occurrence of cancer, but also liver diseases.
The material needed to test beta-globulin is blood, and the test itself is diagnostic. It should be borne in mind that the interpretation of a single result is only illustrative and cannot be the basis for a diagnosis.
Beta-globulins are proteins belonging to blood plasma proteins that act as a transporter. They transport iron, steroid hormones and fatty acids, among other things. The following are distinguished among beta-globulin:
- hemopexin,
- transferrin,
- beta-lipoprotein,
- beta2-microglobulin,
- bradykinin,
- enzymy (np. fosfataza, proteaza),
- angiotensin,
- isoagglutinins.
In healthy people, beta-globulins should constitute about 8-15% of total protein.
What are the indications for beta-globulin testing?
Indications for the test:
1. Differentiation of hematopoietic system diseases.
2. Disorders of the immune system.
3. Liver disease.
Material for beta-globulin testing: serum.
Preparation for the test: on an empty stomach (at least 8 hours).
The course of beta-globulin research: one-time blood sampling from a vein in the arm.
Time to wait for the result: 1 Day.
Standard: 26,3-9,1 g / L (9-13% of total protein).
Comments: Determination of ß-globulin concentration is an element of serum protein electrophoresis.
Beta-globulins – interpretation of research results
1. Increased beta-globulin concentration may mean:
- liver disease,
- nephrotic syndrome,
- szpiczaka manygiego,
- tumor,
- Waldenstrom’s disease,
- scrapie,
- pregnancy (in women in the third trimester of pregnancy it is a normal symptom).
Increased globulin levels together with an increase in total protein in the blood often means dehydration. The concentration of selected gamma-globulins often increases in the course of autoimmune diseases, e.g. in rheumatoid arthritis.
2. Values of beta-globulin below the norm may mean:
- nephrotic syndrome,
- disturbed synthesis of innate proteins,
- skin inflammation,
- problems with proper digestion and absorption,
- malnutrition, fasting, incorrect diet,
- condition after burn,
- chronic damage to the liver parenchyma,
- enteritis,
- chronic bleeding
- overactive thyroid gland
- sepsis,
- tumor,
- liver damage.