Assessment of serum protein
1979
Nutritional status can be assessed by serum concentration levels of the proteins, albumin, transferrin, retinol-binding protein, and prealbumin. Low serum levels are indicative either of depletion of body protein or decreased availability of amino acids for protein synthesis. Albumin, the major indicator of protein malnutrition, maintains colloid osmotic pressure and transports metabolites and drugs. Levels under 3 mg/dl are associated with kwashiorkor. Transferrin is a more sensitive indicator of protein malnutrition; it transports iron to the liver and spleen for storage. Retinol-binding protein and prealbumin are important in vitamin A transport, and may be used as indicators of protein deficiency, however, serum albumin and transferrin are more reliable indicators.
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