Protein Mass Concentration in Plasma (e.g., Total Protein)
This test measures the total amount of protein in your plasma, which includes important substances like albumin and globulins that help maintain fluid balance, support immune function, and transport nutrients.
["Total protein levels help assess kidney function, nutritional status, and potential liver or immune system issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14897-3
- Short code
- Deprecated Prot Plas-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Deprecated Prot Plas-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- 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 healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like swelling (edema), unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or if they suspect conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, or malnutrition. It can also be part of routine check-ups or screening for certain health conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw blood. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch or slight discomfort. Avoid eating or drinking for 8–12 hours before if instructed, as it may affect results.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a general reference range, but exact values can vary by lab. Low protein levels may indicate kidney disease, liver problems, or poor nutrition, while very high levels could suggest dehydration, inflammation, or certain medical conditions like multiple myeloma.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test helps diagnose or monitor conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, malnutrition, or infections. It can also guide treatment decisions for conditions affecting fluid balance or protein synthesis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein levels in plasma can signal underlying health issues. Low protein levels may reflect impaired production (e.g., liver disease) or excessive loss (e.g., kidney disease), while elevated levels could indicate dehydration, inflammation, or other metabolic disturbances. Regular monitoring helps track progression of chronic conditions and adjust treatments accordingly.
Short name
Total Protein (Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
What does a low or high protein level indicate?
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