📌 What is the AAG Test?
A blood test that measures alpha-1 acid glycoprotein (AAG), a protein produced by the liver. AAG is an acute-phase reactant, meaning its levels increase in response to inflammation, infection, and trauma. It also plays a role in drug binding and transport in the blood.
📊 Normal Ranges
✔ Adults: 50 - 120 mg/dL (varies by lab)
✔ Newborns: Lower than adult levels
🚨 High AAG Levels May Indicate:
🔺 Acute and chronic inflammation (e.g., infections, autoimmune diseases)
🔺 Cancer, especially solid tumors
🔺 Trauma, surgery, or burns
🔺 Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
📉 Low AAG Levels May Indicate:
🔻 Liver disease or failure (since AAG is made in the liver)
🔻 Nephrotic syndrome (protein loss in urine)
🔻 Malnutrition
🎯 Purpose of the Test
✅ Evaluates inflammatory conditions and acute-phase response
✅ Assesses liver function and protein synthesis capacity
✅ Monitors drug-binding capacity, as AAG affects medication availability in the body
✅ Helps diagnose cancer and other chronic diseases
💡 Key Facts
🔹 AAG is an acute-phase protein, meaning levels rise in response to inflammation or stress
🔹 Drug levels can be affected by AAG levels, as it binds to certain medications
🔹 Liver disease lowers AAG production, affecting protein levels in the blood
🔹 Used alongside other tests for a complete evaluation of inflammatory and liver conditions