The Interpretation of Human Serum Protein Values in Central America and Panama

Abstract

Summary 1. Serum protein levels cannot be used for the detection of mild to moderate degrees of protein deficiency in humans. 2. Factors other than protein intake per se can bring about an increase in serum protein levels above normal averages even in the presence of mild to moderate protein deficiency as determined by diet interview or clinical examination. 3. Neither racial differences, altitude differences, nor simple dehydration explain globulin fractions. 4. The influence of endemic goiter and the high proportion of vegetable protein in the diet should be investigated in relation to it. 5. The increase in serum proteins appears to be an increase in both albumin and globulin fractions. 6. These phenomena of high serum protein values in the presence of mild to moderate protein deficiency are of special significance for tropical and subtropical regions.