The blood contains small amounts of two proteins: albumin and globulin. Albumin helps keep fluid inside of your blood vessels from leaking out into the body. Globulins include a large variety of enzymes and proteins that perform different functions. When the normal ratio of albumin to globulin changes, it can indicate the presence of a chronic disease.
Amyloidosis
Amyloid is a protein produced by the cells in your bone marrow. Amyloidosis is a rare condition that occurs when amyloid proteins accumulate in your organs. The most frequently affected organs include the heart, kidneys, spleen and liver. The nervous system and digestive tract may also be affected, according to MayoClinic.com. Amyloidosis may occur on its own or in response to other conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis. If you have amyloidosis, a total protein blood test will shown an increased total protein. The only way to definitively diagnosis amyloidosis, however, is through a tissue biopsy. Symptoms of amyloidosis include weakness, weight loss, shortness of breath, tingling in the hands and feet, fatigue, swelling of the legs, irregular heartbeat and diarrhea or constipation.
Hepatitis
Hepatitis is a general term for chronic inflammation of the liver. When the liver is inflamed, it cannot function properly. Hepatitis is divided into three major types. Hepatitis A is spread through fecal matter and is usually an acute illness. Hepatitis B is spread through blood, semen or saliva and hepatitis C is spread through blood only. Both hepatitis B and C are chronic illnesses. All types of hepatitis can cause an increase in total protein levels in your blood. If begun early, treatment for hepatitis can delay the progression of the disease. Untreated hepatitis can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Multiple Myeloma
The plasma cells in your bone marrow produce antibodies to help keep your immune system strong and fight any intruders that have the potential to cause disease. Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that affects the plasma cells. In this type of cancer, plasma cells grow rapidly until they form a tumor inside of the bone. The tumor hinders the proper production of white blood cells, red blood cells and blood platelets. The decreased production of blood cells can lead to anemia and infections, which cause the level of protein in your blood to rise. Symptoms of multiple myeloma may include bone pain, fevers, fatigue, shortness of breath, bleeding problems, weakness, increased incidences of fractures and frequent infections, according to MedlinePlus.
