[Peter]

High total protein level

by Peter on Mon Feb 22, 2016 6:25 pm

Today the nurse at my doctor's office called and said that I had high protein levels (I think she said "slightly," but I can't rely on my memory). She asked me to come back to do another blood panel. When I found out what the tests were (immunofixation, serum protein electrophoresis, and CRP), I got concerned.

I called back and asked what my protein levels were exactly. The nurse said the range was 0-15 and mine was 84. That shocked me deeply, but after doing my own online research, I'm won­der­ing whether that's g/dL or g/L. I tried calling back, but the office already closed.

I know 8.4 g/dL is still high on the standard range, but can you even have 84 g/dL?

Any info while I wait on the second round of blood tests would be appreciated.

[Multibilly]

Re: High total protein level

by Multibilly on Mon Feb 22, 2016 9:19 pm

Hey Peter,

Welcome to the forum.

TOTAL serum (blood) protein levels are typically 6.1 -8.1 g/dL (but this can vary a bit from lab to lab). However, it is incredibly unlikely (and probably impossible) that you have a total serum protein level of 84 g/dL. I therefore think there is a miscommunication between you and the nurse regarding these results.

However, it's very good that your doc suggested all the follow up tests if you indeed have a slightly elevated serum protein level. Please kindly let us know how your other lab results turn out. Wishing you all the best.

[Peter]

Re: High total protein level

by Peter on Mon Feb 22, 2016 9:43 pm

Thank you, MB. Truth be told, there have been previous issues with the nurse over the phone. I left that part out because I didn't want to sway opinions (mine included) with what I actually know.

I'm still anxious about the results, but this is less jaw-dropping news to deal with while I wait. Thank you again for responding. I would appreciate any other insights too. I'll update my post with actual lab results.

Bless you all.

[Tom74]

Re: High total protein level

by Tom74 on Wed Feb 24, 2016 10:57 am

I am allergic to Velcade so they stopped the drug in December. Went on Revlimid and dex, but two weeks ago protein level was on the rise so they started me on Kyprolis, increased the Revlimid to 21/7 and dex twice a week.

Will know more in three weeks about protein levels.

Good luck and stay positive,

Tom

[blueblood]

Re: High total protein level

by blueblood on Wed Feb 24, 2016 1:06 pm

Peter,

My labs references for serum protein are 6.4-8.4, so you are right on the bubble.

I concur with your opinion of your nurse. As much as I hate to admit I'm judgmental, I trust my instincts and first opinions of people. That would go for an office, too, that allows a loose nurse to report ranges that are grossly inaccurate (if that is indeed the case).

Good luck and continue being an advocate