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Serum or plasma concentration of total protein by nephelometry

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall health, kidney function, and nutritional status.

Quick summary

["Total protein levels can signal kidney issues, malnutrition, or other health concerns."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14511-0
Short code
C trach Ag Urth Ql IF
Synonyms
C trach Ag Urth Ql IF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
if
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 Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions like kidney disease (where protein might leak into urine), liver problems, dehydration, or malnutrition. It can also help monitor long-term health in chronic illnesses.

What Does a Result Mean?

Higher-than-normal levels might indicate conditions like multiple myeloma (cancer of plasma cells) or severe dehydration. Lower-than-normal levels could signal liver disease, malnutrition, or kidney problems.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then separated into serum (liquid after clotting) or plasma (liquid after centrifugation) for testing.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used alongside other blood tests (like albumin) to diagnose or track conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, or protein-losing syndromes.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Total protein levels can reflect the balance between albumin (produced by the liver) and globulins (produced by the immune system). Abnormalities may indicate underlying issues requiring further investigation, such as infections, inflammatory diseases, or metabolic disorders.

Short name

Total protein level

Frequently asked questions

What causes total protein levels to be higher than normal?
Higher-than-normal protein levels can result from conditions like multiple myeloma (a blood cancer), severe dehydration, or certain liver diseases. Chronic infections or inflammatory conditions may also contribute.
What causes total protein levels to be lower than normal?
Lower-than-normal protein levels often point to malnutrition, kidney disease (where protein is lost in urine), or liver disease (where protein production is impaired). Severe burns or certain immune disorders may also be factors.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. Your doctor may recommend this test annually for routine check-ups or more often if you have conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, or chronic infections.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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