Albumin-to-Globulin (A/G) Ratio
Enter serum total protein and albumin (g/dL). The calculator derives globulin and the A/G ratio to aid evaluation of liver function and immunoglobulin status.
Globulin
3.00 g/dL
A/G ratio
1.40
Interpretation
Within reference range
How to Use This Calculator
Obtain serum total protein and albumin
Use the same blood sample for both measurements, typically from a comprehensive metabolic panel.
Enter values in g/dL
Ensure consistent units (g/dL). The calculator subtracts albumin from total protein to estimate globulin.
Interpret ratio in context
Compare A/G ratio with reference range and correlate with liver function tests, protein electrophoresis, and clinical findings.
Formula
Globulin (g/dL) = Total protein − Albumin
A/G ratio = Albumin ÷ Globulin
Reference ranges: Globulin ~2.0–3.5 g/dL; A/G ratio 1.0–2.5 (laboratory dependent).
Full Description
Serum proteins consist of albumin and globulins. The albumin-to-globulin ratio aids detection of chronic liver disease, nephrotic syndrome, gammopathies, and immunodeficiency. Elevated globulins lower the ratio, whereas decreased globulins or increased albumin raise it. Interpretation should be integrated with liver enzymes, inflammatory markers, and serum protein electrophoresis when abnormalities persist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions lower the A/G ratio?
Chronic infections, autoimmune diseases, cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome, and plasma cell dyscrasias increase globulins or reduce albumin, lowering the ratio.
Can dehydration affect the ratio?
Dehydration raises both albumin and globulin proportionally, often leaving the ratio unchanged but increasing total protein concentration.
When should serum protein electrophoresis be ordered?
Order SPEP when A/G ratio is markedly low or high, or when monoclonal gammopathy is suspected (e.g., unexplained anemia, bone pain).
Is this ratio useful in pediatrics?
Pediatric reference ranges differ. Consult age-specific values when interpreting albumin, globulin, and A/G ratio in children.