Increased in inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis, burns, and nephrotic syndrome (glomerulus becomes more porous, we lose more fluids and LMW proteins, resulting in slight increase in bigger proteins like haptoglobin)
Decreased in intravascular hemolysis and red cell trauma (prolonged trauma)
Alpha-1 antitrypsin associated abnormalities
Decreased levels are associated with emphysema and juvenile hepatic cirrhosis
Increased levels are associated with inflammatory reactions, pregnancy, and contraceptive use
Normal percentages of the different fractions of serum protein
Albumin: 53 - 65%
Alpha 1: 2.5 - 5%
Alpha-2: 7 - 13%
Beta: 8 - 14%
Gammas: 12 - 22%
Alpha-1 Fetoprotein associated abnormalities
Increased levels are associated with spina bifida (incomplete spinal cord formation), neural tube defects, GI malformation, general fetal distress, and twins
Decreased levels are associated with Down’s syndrome, and trisomy 18 (Edward’s syndrome, multiple defects and mortality within weeks of birth. Microcephaly, heart defects, syndactyly (attached digits))
AFP tumor marker found in adults with hepatic cancer and some gonadal tumors (testis and ovaries, sex glands)
