Total Protein with Albumin Ratio (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the ratio of total protein to albumin in your blood, which helps assess protein balance and potential kidney or liver function issues.
["Understanding your protein and albumin levels can reveal hidden health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 86714-3
- Short code
- OXA51
- Synonyms
- blaOXA-51-like Islt/Spm Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile transport container or blood culture bottle for serum; EDTA tube acceptable for molecular testing
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- molgen
- CPT
- 87798
- SNOMED
- 398126003
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-70°C or below): 30 days
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Matters
Total protein includes albumin and other proteins like globulins. Albumin is crucial for maintaining fluid balance and transporting substances in your blood. A ratio that doesn’t match expectations may signal conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, or malnutrition.
Your blood sample is analyzed to determine the concentration of total protein and albumin separately. The ratio is then calculated by dividing total protein by albumin.
This test is typically done using a blood draw from a vein in your arm. Results are usually available within 1–2 days.
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like swelling, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or if they suspect kidney or liver disease.
Symptoms such as swelling in the legs or abdomen, jaundice (yellowing of the skin), or frequent infections might prompt this test.
No special preparation is needed, but avoid heavy meals 2 hours before your appointment. If you’re on certain medications, let your provider know.
You may feel slight discomfort from the needle, but most people tolerate it well. Rest after the draw if you feel dizzy.
Reference range
Negative (blaOXA-51-like gene not detected)N/A
No special patient preparation required. Sample should be collected prior to initiation of antimicrobial therapy when possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A high ratio may indicate liver disease (reduced albumin production) or kidney problems (protein loss in urine). A low ratio could suggest malnutrition, severe liver disease, or overhydration. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
Short name
Protein-Albumin Ratio
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low ratio mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or medications affect this test?
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