Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) Practice Exam

What is the total serum protein level in a dog with an albumin of 4.0 g/dl and a globulin level of 3.5 g/dl?

1. 1.5 g/dl

2. 3.5 g/dl

3. 7.5 g/dl

4. Cannot calculate with this information

The correct answer is: 7.5 g/dl

To find the total serum protein level in a dog, the albumin level and the globulin level are added together. Albumin is a protein produced by the liver that plays a crucial role in maintaining oncotic pressure and transporting substances in the blood, while globulins consist of various proteins that have different functions, including immune responses. In this case, the values provided are an albumin level of 4.0 g/dl and a globulin level of 3.5 g/dl. By adding these two values together (4.0 g/dl + 3.5 g/dl), the total serum protein level is calculated as 7.5 g/dl. This total serum protein measurement is significant in veterinary medicine, as it provides insight into the patient's nutritional status, liver function, and overall health. Veterinarians rely on these values to help diagnose various conditions such as liver disease, kidney disease, and inflammatory processes.