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Total Protein (TP)
The serum total protein concentration comprises all the proteins found in the aqueous phase of the
blood. In healthy animals, albumin is the major single component. The remaining proteins are the
alpha, beta, and gamma globulins. The globulin concentration is determined by subtracting the
albumin from the total protein.
Principal Reason for Performing the Test
Total protein measurement may provide useful information when used in combination with tests
to investigate hepatic and renal function, the degree of hydration, protein-losing enteropathies,
or gammopathies. The test is nonspecific and, if performed in isolation, will be unlikely to provide
diagnostic information.
Most Common Abnormalities Indicated by the Test
Increased total protein—dehydration, inflammatory disease.
Decreased total protein—loss of proteins through blood loss and gastrointestinal loss, decreased
albumin associated with protein-losing nephropathy and enteropathy, and decreased albumin
associated with hepatic insufficiency and inflammatory disease.
Impaired renal and hepatic function, dehydration, and gastrointestinal lesions.
Sample Type and Precautions
Remove plasma or serum promptly from the cells or clot. If plasma is collected, use only lithium
heparinized samples. Moderate-to-marked hemolysis can result in false high total protein
concentration.
Results obtained from the analysis of plasma may be slightly higher than serum due to the
fibrinogen that remains in the plasma.
Complementary Tests
Total protein concentration is usually determined in conjunction with the measurement of albumin
and other tests of renal and hepatic function.
Reaction Sequence
Total T
4
(TT
4
)
An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the quantitative measurement of total T
4
(thyroxine) in canine, feline, and equine patients. With a total T
4
test, you can assess thyroid
function, provide comprehensive one-visit screening for feline hyperthyroidism, presumptive
canine or equine hypothyroidism, as well as monitor response to treatment and adjust dosages
immediately.
Principal Reason for Performing the Test
To screen, diagnose, and monitor thyroid disease. The measurement of total thyroxine helps
veterinary practitioners to assess thyroidal function by measuring the bound and unbound thyroxine
in the blood. Thyroxine is the principal hormone secreted by the thyroid gland and is critical to
metabolic processes.
Most Common Abnormality Indicated by the Test
Hyperthyroidism—an elevated TT
4
is consistent with hyperthyroidism. Naturally occurring
hyperthyroidism is a common endocrine disorder in cats and rare in dogs.
Appendices
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