Unpacking Lesser Known Blood Markers

Family of globular proteins.

Blood tests are a crucial tool in modern medicine, providing a wealth of information about a person's health. While most people are familiar with common markers like cholesterol levels or blood sugar, there are many lesser-known markers that can provide valuable insights into your health. In this unit, we will explore some of these markers, including Albumin, Globulin, Bilirubin, and Alkaline Phosphatase.

Albumin

Albumin is a protein made by the liver and it makes up about 60% of the total protein in the blood. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the osmotic pressure that helps to transport molecules, including hormones, drugs, and fatty acids, throughout the body. Low albumin levels can indicate liver disease or malnutrition, while high levels can be a sign of dehydration or severe diarrhea.

Globulin

Globulins are a group of proteins in your blood. They are made in your liver by your immune system. Globulins play an important role in liver function, blood clotting, and fighting infection. There are three types of globulins: alpha, beta, and gamma. If your total globulin level is high, it could indicate chronic inflammatory disease, infection, or blood disorders. If it's low, it could mean you have liver disease, an immune disorder, or a genetic disorder.

Bilirubin

Bilirubin is a yellow substance that's produced when red blood cells break down. It's normally processed by the liver and excreted in stool. High levels of bilirubin can cause jaundice, which gives the skin and eyes a yellowish tint. Elevated bilirubin levels can indicate liver dysfunction or hemolytic anemia, a condition where red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be made.

Alkaline Phosphatase

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found in several tissues throughout the body, but primarily in the liver, bile ducts, and bone. A routine blood test can show up high levels of ALP, which could suggest liver disease or damage, bile duct blockage, or certain bone conditions. Low levels of ALP can indicate malnutrition or a deficiency in certain vitamins and minerals.

Understanding these lesser-known blood markers can provide a more comprehensive picture of your health. In the next unit, we will delve into understanding the normal ranges for these markers and what it means if they are high or low.