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Total Protein (Serum)

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood serum. Proteins are essential for many bodily functions, including transporting nutrients, maintaining fluid balance, and supporting immune responses.

Quick summary

["Your blood protein levels help assess overall health and identify potential issues like malnutrition or kidney problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
82443-3
Short code
Deprecated ENA SM+RNP Ab Ser Ql IB
Synonyms
Deprecated ENA SM+RNP Ab Ser Ql IB
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ib
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

What Does This Test Measure?

Total protein includes a mix of albumin and globulins, which are produced by your liver and immune system. Albumin helps keep fluids in your blood vessels, while globulins support immune function and blood clotting. This test provides a general picture of your protein status, though individual protein types are measured separately if needed.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Doctors may order a total protein test to check for conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, liver disease, or certain immune disorders. It can also help monitor treatment progress for conditions affecting protein levels.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The serum (liquid part of blood after clotting) is then analyzed in a lab to measure protein concentration.

What Are Common Results?

Results are typically reported in grams per deciliter (g/dL). While specific reference ranges vary by lab, lower than expected levels may suggest malnutrition or kidney issues, while higher levels could indicate conditions like multiple myeloma or severe dehydration.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What Are Possible Causes of Abnormal Results?
Low total protein levels may be caused by malnutrition, kidney disease, liver disease, or chronic infections. High levels could result from conditions like multiple myeloma, severe dehydration, or certain inflammatory diseases. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider, as they’ll consider your full medical history and other test results.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
The frequency depends on your health status and any underlying conditions. Your doctor may recommend this test during routine check-ups, when monitoring a chronic illness, or if symptoms like unexplained weight loss, swelling, or fatigue appear.
Can I Prepare for This Test?
No special preparation is needed, but avoid heavy meals or strenuous activity before the blood draw. If you’re on certain medications or have a history of bleeding disorders, inform your healthcare provider beforehand.
  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