Changes in serum protein profile of healthy adult Nigerians after three decades

Serum protein profile was recently determined in 55 healthy adult Nigerians and compared with values obtained 3 decades ago. The total serum protein levels were similar, but an increase in titre was recorded in albumin, alpha 1-globulin and beta-globulin. The gamma-globulin level fell markedly in the present study, suggesting improvement in health care and quality of life in the last 3 decades. Changes seen in the serum protein pattern of healthy adult Nigerians were within the normal range compared with values recorded in other Africans and Black Americans. These changes should be considered in the interpretation of laboratory results.