Total Protein with Albumin/Globulin Ratio (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the total protein in your blood and evaluates the balance between albumin and globulin proteins, which are key to maintaining fluid balance and supporting immune function.
["Understanding your protein balance helps identify issues like malnutrition, liver disease, or immune disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 57002-8
- Short code
- 11DC 4D p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- 11DC 4D p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- hormone
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein levels, such as kidney disease, liver problems, or chronic infections. It can also help monitor long-term health in patients with certain diseases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm for a blood draw, which usually takes just a few minutes. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.
What the Results Mean
Total protein and albumin/globulin ratios help determine if your body is producing enough proteins or if there’s an imbalance. Abnormal results may signal underlying health concerns that need further evaluation.
Common Conditions Affecting Results
High protein levels might indicate dehydration, severe infections, or conditions like multiple myeloma. Low protein levels could signal malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems. Globulin levels may rise with chronic inflammation or autoimmune diseases.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test helps assess overall protein status, fluid balance, and immune function, guiding treatment for conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, or immune disorders.
Short name
Protein Profile
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal protein levels in my blood?
Do I need to fast before this test?
How long will it take to get my results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy