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Serum or Plasma Total Protein (Electrophoresis-Based)

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 maintain fluid balance, support immune function, and transport nutrients.

Quick summary

["Total protein levels can help identify conditions affecting blood composition or fluid balance."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
38549-2
Short code
Deprecated HLA-Bw locus
Synonyms
Deprecated HLA-Bw locus
Category
chemistry
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 It’s Done

Your doctor may order a total protein test to check for conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or certain immune disorders. It can also be used during pregnancy to monitor for preeclampsia or other complications.

What to Expect

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed using electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins based on size and charge. Results are reported as a total protein concentration.

Normal vs. Abnormal Results

While specific reference ranges vary by lab, higher than expected levels may suggest conditions like multiple myeloma or severe dehydration, while lower levels could indicate malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems.

Common Conditions Linked to Results

Elevated protein levels might indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, where abnormal proteins (like monoclonal gammopathy) build up in the blood. Low protein levels can signal liver disease (reducing albumin production) or kidney disease (losing protein in urine).

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?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
No special preparation is needed for this test. You can eat and drink normally, as it doesn’t affect protein levels in blood.
What if my protein levels are out of range?
If your results are abnormal, your doctor may recommend further testing (e.g., albumin, specific protein electrophoresis) or additional evaluations (like imaging or biopsies) to identify the underlying cause.
  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