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Total Protein (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes albumin and other proteins like globulins. Proteins help transport nutrients, fight infection, and maintain fluid balance in your body.

Quick summary

["Your blood protein levels can indicate overall health and help diagnose conditions like dehydration, liver disease, or kidney problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
43545-3
Short code
Deprecated Finger.3rd-L XR GE 3V
Synonyms
Deprecated Finger.3rd-L XR GE 3V
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr
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 It’s Done

Doctors may order a total protein test to check for health issues such as infections, kidney disease, liver problems, or certain types of cancer. It can also help monitor conditions like multiple myeloma or chronic kidney disease.

What to Expect

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a small pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The test is quick and done in a lab.

Sample Collection

The test uses a small amount of blood drawn from your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed for total protein content.

What the Results Mean

Higher-than-normal protein levels might suggest conditions like multiple myeloma or dehydration. Lower-than-normal levels could indicate liver disease, kidney problems, or malnutrition.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my results back?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab. Follow-up with your healthcare provider if you have questions about your results.
What does it mean if my protein levels are too high or too low?
High protein levels may signal conditions like multiple myeloma, severe dehydration, or certain infections. Low protein levels could indicate liver disease, kidney failure, or malnutrition. Your doctor will discuss these findings with you.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
You can eat and drink normally before this test unless instructed otherwise. No special preparation is needed for a total protein blood test.
  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