Pre-Albumin

A serum pre-albumin test is a blood test that measures the level of pre-albumin, also known as transthyretin, in your blood. Pre-albumin is a protein that is primarily produced by the liver and is used as a marker of nutritional status. Here are some reasons why you may need to have your serum pre-albumin and serum potassium levels tested together:

To assess nutritional status: Low levels of pre-albumin in the blood can be a sign of malnutrition or protein deficiency, which can have a negative impact on many aspects of your health, including your immune system, wound healing, and overall energy levels. Low potassium levels can also be a sign of malnutrition or electrolyte imbalances.

To monitor treatment for certain medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as liver disease, kidney disease, or cancer, can affect both pre-albumin and potassium levels in the blood. Monitoring these levels can help assess the effectiveness of treatments and guide appropriate management.

To evaluate the severity of illness: Low pre-albumin levels have been associated with increased mortality and morbidity in hospitalized patients. Similarly, low potassium levels can be a sign of severe illness or organ dysfunction. Testing these levels together can provide important information about overall health status and prognosis.

Overall, testing for serum pre-albumin and serum potassium levels together can provide important information about your nutritional status, electrolyte balance, and overall health status. If you have concerns about your nutritional status or if you have a medical condition that may affect pre-albumin or potassium levels, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider to determine if testing is appropriate for you.