Prealbumin
Also known as: PA; Tryptophan-rich prealbumin; Thyroxine-binding prealbumin; TBPA
Formal name: Transthyretin test
Related tests: Albumin; Transferrin
The Test Sample
What is being tested?
The test measures levels of prealbumin in the blood. Prealbumin is a protein produced primarily by the liver. It serves as a source of amino acids for the production of other proteins, and it carries substances such as the thyroid hormone thyroxine throughout the body. Prealbumin has a half-life of only two days, which means that it breaks down quickly in the body and the amount changes rapidly, decreasing when there is a protein deficiency. This short half-life gives doctors a snapshot of a person's current nutritional status.
How is the sample collected for testing?
A blood sample is taken by a needle from a vein in the arm.
NOTE: If undergoing medical tests makes you or someone you care for anxious, embarrassed, or even difficult to manage, you might consider reading one or more of the following articles: Coping with Test Pain, Discomfort, and Anxiety, Tips on Blood Testing, Tips to Help Children through Their Medical Tests, and Tips to Help the Elderly through Their Medical Tests.
Another article, Follow That Sample, provides a glimpse at the collection and processing of a blood sample and throat culture.
Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample?
No test preparation is needed.
