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Prealbumin


Also known as: PA; Tryptophan-rich prealbumin; Thyroxine-binding prealbumin; TBPA
Formal name: Transthyretin test
Related tests: Albumin; Transferrin

At a Glance

Why Get Tested?

To help diagnose malnutrition and to monitor people at risk for poor nutrition

When to Get Tested?

When your doctor suspects that you are malnourished because of poor diet, HIV, or an eating disorder; when you are admitted to the hospital for surgery or certain diseases; or when you are having parenteral (for example, intravenous) nutrition or hemodialysis

Sample Required?

A blood sample drawn from a vein in the arm

Test Preparation Needed?

None