Description
The Retinol Binding Protein (RBP) Blood Test measures the level of RBP, a protein that transports vitamin A (retinol) in the blood. RBP is an important marker for nutritional status and can also provide insight into kidney function, as reduced RBP levels are sometimes linked to renal issues.
This test is often used to assess vitamin A deficiency, monitor nutritional therapy, or evaluate renal protein loss in certain kidney disorders.
Purpose of the Test
- Evaluate vitamin A nutritional status
- Detect vitamin A deficiency or malnutrition
- Monitor response to nutritional therapy
- Assess kidney function and protein loss in renal disorders
- Support management of liver disease or chronic illness affecting vitamin A transport
Who Should Consider This Test?
- Individuals with suspected vitamin A deficiency
- Patients with malabsorption syndromes (e.g., celiac disease, Crohn’s disease)
- People with chronic liver or kidney disease
- Individuals on long-term nutritional supplementation
- Patients recovering from critical illness or malnutrition
What the Test Measures
- Retinol Binding Protein (RBP):
- Measures the blood level of the protein responsible for transporting vitamin A from the liver to tissues.
Low RBP levels may indicate vitamin A deficiency, malnutrition, or kidney protein loss, while high levels can occasionally occur in metabolic disorders.
Fasting Required?
No fasting required.
