Very Common
Less Common
Related Observations
Your vet might choose this diagnostic test if you were making these observations.
Diagnostic
Tests or procedures used by your vet to determine what is wrong with your horse, in order to reach a diagnosis.
Cost: Under $100
These cost ranges are approximate and may vary from region to region.
Additional charges may also apply.
YOUR VET MAY PERFORM
Plasma Total Protein & Albumin
Cost: Under $100
These cost ranges are approximate and may vary from region to region.
Additional charges may also apply.
Summary
Protein levels in blood are an important indicator of health. High levels can indicate dehydration. Low levels can indicate loss of protein from the blood, usually into the intestinal or urinary tract.
The bulk of Total Protein is made up of several important proteins, globulin and albumin, both of which have critical roles in the body.
Albumin is a critical protein that acts as the "sponge" that keeps the liquid part of blood within the vessels. Excessive loss of albumin causes fluid to leak into the tissues, causing swelling (edema).
One of the most common causes of loss of albumin in horses is intestinal disease, especially colitis. In this case, the damaged intestine allows these proteins to seep out.
For this test, blood is collected into a blood tube. Total protein is estimated in a simple laboratory test. The determination of albumin is also commonly performed in veterinary clinics.
The bulk of Total Protein is made up of several important proteins, globulin and albumin, both of which have critical roles in the body.
Albumin is a critical protein that acts as the "sponge" that keeps the liquid part of blood within the vessels. Excessive loss of albumin causes fluid to leak into the tissues, causing swelling (edema).
One of the most common causes of loss of albumin in horses is intestinal disease, especially colitis. In this case, the damaged intestine allows these proteins to seep out.
For this test, blood is collected into a blood tube. Total protein is estimated in a simple laboratory test. The determination of albumin is also commonly performed in veterinary clinics.
Why A Vet Chooses This Diagnostic
Related Diagnostics
Other diagnostic tests that might be used in combination or with this one or instead of this one.
Very Common
Diagnoses Your Vet May Consider
This test could rule out or confirm any of the following diagnoses.
BENEFITS
This is a simple, fundamental and inexpensive test, performed quickly in most clinics. The test is frequently performed along with Packed Cell Volume (PCV) also known as Hematocrit (HCT). LIMITATIONS
Levels of protein and albumin also relate to hydration. Dehydrated horses have higher levels.