Alpha-2 Macroglobulin

Immunology

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Description

Alpha-2 macroglobulin is a high molecular weight acute phase protein. It demonstrates an inhibitory effect on trypsin, chymotrypsin, plasma kalikrinin, thrombin and elastase. It has regulatory roles in three cascade activation pathways - thrombotic, fibrinolytic and kinin activation [1]. Increased concentrations are seen in pregnancy and in exogenous estrogen administration. Although reportedly raised in the nephrotic syndrome, liver disease, ataxia telangiectasia, diabetes mellitus, estrogen therapy and pregnancy, and decreased in acute pancreatitis and fibrinolysis, its measurement in these conditions is of no clinical value [1,2].

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Indications

Acute phase protein.

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Sample Type

2mL Serum (Gel 5mL Yellow tube). Requests from outside Sheffield: Transport at ambient temperature via Royal Mail or Courier.

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Reference Range

Age | Male | Female
0-15 years | 2.8 - 6.7 g/L | 2.8 - 6.7 g/L
16-30 years | 2.0 - 4.5 g/L | 2.2 - 5.0 g/L
31-45 years | 1.6 - 4.0 g/L | 1.8 - 4.5 g/L
>45 years | 1.3 - 3.5 g/L | 1.4 - 4.0 g/L
Increased concentrations are seen in pregnancy

Reference ranges established in house and PRU collaboration.

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Turnaround Time

Within 10 days

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Testing Frequency

Weekly

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References

PRU Handbook of Clinical Immunochemistry. 9th Edition. 2007. [Ref 1]
Ritchie RF, et al. Reference distributions for alpha-2 macroglobulin: A practical, simple and clinically relevant approach in a large cohort. J Clin Lab Analysis. 2004. 18(2):139-147.
[Ref 2]Van Gool J, Van Vugt H, De Bont E. Alpha 2-macroglobulin and fibrinogen modulate inflammatory edema in man. Inflammation. 1990. 14(3):275-283.

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See Also

SAA; AGP

Please note: the above information is subject to change and we endeavour to keep this website up to date wherever necessary.