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Retinal Protein Mass Concentration (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test measures the amount of protein found in your blood that is related to retinal health, often assessed in conditions affecting the eyes.

Quick summary

["Helps evaluate eye-related blood conditions by tracking protein levels linked to retinal function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
2920-7
Short code
Deprecated Retinal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Deprecated Retinal SerPl-mCnc
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 This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like vision changes, eye pain, or a history of retinal diseases (e.g., diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration). It may also be part of monitoring for conditions affecting blood vessels in the retina.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is drawn, and the protein content in the serum or plasma is measured using advanced laboratory techniques to detect retinal-specific proteins.

Sample Collection and Preparation

Blood is collected in a special tube, separated into serum or plasma, and sent to the lab for analysis. This test does not require fasting.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider about any medications or recent illnesses that could affect results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Abnormal levels may indicate retinal damage, inflammation, or vascular issues. Elevated levels could suggest conditions like diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, or other retinal pathologies. Low levels may warrant further investigation into protein metabolism or kidney function, as the kidneys filter proteins.

Short name

Retinal Protein Level

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low result mean?
A high result may signal retinal disease or blood vessel problems in the eyes, while low results could raise concerns about protein loss in urine (nephrotic syndrome) or kidney function.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine frequency based on your health needs—typically as part of routine eye exams or monitoring for retinal conditions.
Does this test hurt?
A small needle is used to draw blood, which may cause slight discomfort, but it usually resolves quickly. Most people tolerate it well.
  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