What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing vision problems in low light, dry skin, frequent infections, or signs of poor nutrition. It's also useful if you have kidney or liver concerns, since this protein can be affected by how well those organs are working. Many people use this test to get a clearer picture of their vitamin A status and overall nutritional health.

What's included in this test?

This test measures retinol binding protein, a protein that carries vitamin A through your bloodstream. It's a helpful marker because it reflects both your vitamin A status and how well your liver and kidneys are functioning, since problems in those organs can raise or lower this protein independent of your diet.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will be available in your account, with each value's normal range clearly explained so you know exactly where you stand. If your level is outside the normal range, simple next steps like adjusting your diet, adding a vitamin A supplement, or retesting in a few months are usually enough, though very abnormal results may call for prompt attention. You can download the standard lab report directly from your account at any time. You'll also be able to track this result over time using the trends feature to see how your levels change.

How can I naturally support healthy vitamin A levels?

Eating foods rich in vitamin A, like carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and eggs, can help support healthy levels naturally. Getting enough dietary fat is also important, since vitamin A needs fat to be absorbed properly. Staying hydrated and limiting alcohol can help support liver and kidney function, which in turn helps this protein work as it should.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days after your sample is collected. You'll get a notification once your report is ready to view in your account. The turnaround time can occasionally vary slightly depending on lab volume.

Who should consider this test?

People with symptoms of vitamin A deficiency, such as night blindness or dry, flaky skin, may want to consider this test. It's also worth considering if you have known kidney or liver issues, poor nutrition, or a restrictive diet that might limit vitamin A intake. Anyone monitoring their nutritional status as part of a wellness check may also find this test useful.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms include trouble seeing in dim light or at night, unusually dry or rough skin, frequent colds or infections, and slow wound healing. Some people also notice dry eyes or a general feeling of run-down health. If you have several of these symptoms together, it may be worth checking your vitamin A status.

What does a high retinol binding protein level mean?

A high level can mean your body has more vitamin A than it needs, or it may point to reduced kidney function since the kidneys normally help clear this protein. If your result is high, cutting back on vitamin A supplements and staying well hydrated are good first steps. Retesting after a few months can help confirm whether the level is trending down.

What does a low retinol binding protein level mean?

A low level often points to a vitamin A deficiency, which can be caused by poor diet, fat malabsorption, or liver problems since the liver makes this protein. Adding more vitamin A-rich foods and healthy fats to your diet is a simple first step. If your levels stay low after dietary changes, it's worth exploring further with additional testing.

How often should I retest?

If your first result is within the normal range and you have no ongoing symptoms, checking again once a year during a routine wellness check is usually enough. If you're actively working on improving your diet or managing a kidney or liver condition, retesting every 2-3 months can help you track your progress. Your trends feature makes it easy to see these changes over time.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Retinol Binding Protein Test - Vitamin A & Nutrition

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]