Description

Prealbumin is a transport protein. It plays a significant role in the metabolism of vitamin A by complexing with retinol-binding protein which in turn complexes with Vitamin A transporting it through the body. This protein is an acute phase reactant whose levels fall in inflammation, malignancy, cirrhosis of the liver and protein wasting diseases of the gut or kidneys. Decreases are associated with liver disease and malnutrition. Levels of Prealbumin increase in Hodgkins disease.