1. Introduction to S100 Protein

What is S100 Protein? S100 proteins are a family of calcium-binding proteins found in various tissues, with S100B being the most clinically relevant. S100B is primarily expressed in astrocytes and is a biomarker for brain injury, neurodegenerative diseases, and certain cancers (e.g., melanoma). Elevated S100B levels in blood or cerebrospinal fluid indicate tissue damage or disease activity.

2. What is an S100 Protein Unit Converter?

Definition: The S100 Protein Unit Converter converts S100 protein concentrations between various units, enabling standardization of laboratory results for clinical and research use.

Purpose: It assists clinicians and researchers in interpreting S100 protein levels across different measurement units (e.g., ng/mL to µg/L), ensuring accurate diagnosis and monitoring of neurological and oncological conditions.

3. Importance of S100 Protein Unit Conversions

Converting S100 protein concentrations between units is critical for:

• Standardizing Results: Different labs report S100 protein in various units (e.g., ng/mL, µg/L); conversion ensures consistency for diagnosis.
• Clinical Diagnosis: Accurate conversions aid in assessing brain injury, neurodegenerative diseases, or cancer progression.
• Research and Collaboration: Enables comparison of S100 protein data across studies or institutions using different measurement standards.

4. Clinical Significance

Elevated Levels: High S100B levels are associated with traumatic brain injury, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and melanoma. Levels may also rise in other conditions like cardiac arrest or sepsis.

Normal Ranges:

• Serum S100B: Typically < 0.15 µg/L (< 150 ng/L) in healthy individuals.
• Values vary by sample type (serum, CSF) and lab—consult a healthcare provider for interpretation.

5. Precautions

Interferences:

• Non-specific elevation of S100B can occur in conditions like sepsis or extracranial injury.
• Sample type (serum vs. CSF) and timing of collection affect results.
• Interpret S100B levels with clinical findings and other diagnostic tests—consult a healthcare provider for accuracy.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why are there different units for S100 protein?
A: Different units reflect varying standards; ng/mL and µg/L are commonly used in clinical and research settings.

Q: What is a normal S100B level?
A: Normal serum S100B is typically < 0.15 µg/L (< 150 ng/L). Levels vary by sample and context—consult a healthcare provider for interpretation.

Q: Can this converter be used for other biomarkers?
A: No, this converter is specific to S100 protein; other biomarkers have different conversion factors—consult a healthcare provider for accuracy.