Transthyretin
Back to Test Catalogue
Prealbumin, Serum
Test ID: PREALB
Test
Aliases/Synonyms
Method
Turbidimetry
Report Includes
Prealbumin
Specimens
Serum
Clinical Utility
This test is used as a nutritional marker. Prealbumin is a transport protein for thyroxin synthesized in the liver. It has a half-life of 2 days, much shorter than that of albumin and is therefore a sensitive marker of nutritional status. Serum concentrations of prealbumin are not significantly affected by hydration status as is albumin. Like albumin, prealbumin is a negative acute phase reactant and its serum concentration decreases in inflammation, malignancy, liver cirrhosis and protein-losing diseases of the gut or kidneys.
Test Location
London Health Sciences Centre, 339 Windermere Road, London ON N6A 5A5
Test Version
30-Oct-2019
Specimen
Specimens
Serum
Sample Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Specimen Comment
Gel-separator tubes are acceptable.
Pediatric Volume
0 - 2 years: 0.5 mL Red top Microtainer; 2 - 10 years: 3 mL Red top Vacutainer tube
Pediatric Minimum
0.15 mL
Collection & Handling
Collection Instructions
Fasting collection is recommended. Do not use chlorhexidine antiseptic swab to cleanse the skin, use an alcohol swab.
Handling Information
Separate serum from cells within 2 hours. Store and send frozen.
Stability
| Refrigerated | 3 days |
|---|---|
| Frozen | 6 months |
Test Version
30-Oct-2019
Performance / Interpretation
Method
Turbidimetry
Turnaround Time
2 days
Results
| Name | Units | Reference Range | Conversion Factor | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prealbumin | g/L |
|
||
Test Location
London Health Sciences Centre, 339 Windermere Road, London ON N6A 5A5
Test Version
30-Oct-2019
Interface / Setup
Test Version
30-Oct-2019