Globulin
The non-albumin proteins in blood, including antibodies and transport proteins.
| Typical reference range | 1.9–3.7 g/dL |
Ranges vary by laboratory, method, age and sex: always use the range printed on your own report. Why labs differ.
What it measures
Globulins are calculated as total protein minus albumin. They include alpha and beta globulins (transport and acute-phase proteins) and gamma globulins (immunoglobulins/antibodies).
Why it matters
Globulin levels reflect immune activity and inflammation. Persistent abnormalities warrant serum protein electrophoresis.
What a high result can mean
High globulin suggests chronic inflammation, chronic infection (e.g. hepatitis, HIV), autoimmune disease, liver cirrhosis or plasma cell disorders such as multiple myeloma.
What a low result can mean
Low globulin can indicate antibody deficiency (immunodeficiency), protein loss, or liver disease.
What affects the result
A calculated value that inherits errors from total protein and albumin. Dehydration raises it.
Units and conversion
Usually reported in g/dL.
- From g/L: multiply by 0.1 to get g/dL
Also called on lab reports
Globulin, Total, Globulin (Calc), Total Globulin, Globulin, Calculated
Related tests: Blood Proteins
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional.