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Serum Total Protein by Bromocresol Green (BCG) Method

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood serum, which includes albumin and other proteins like globulins.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall protein balance and potential liver or kidney issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13154-0
Short code
Deprecated S pneum12 Ab 2:1 Ser-Rto
Synonyms
Deprecated S pneum12 Ab 2:1 Ser-Rto
Category
coagulation
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein production, such as liver disease, kidney problems, malnutrition, or certain infections. It can also help monitor treatment responses in conditions like chronic kidney disease or protein-losing disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader metabolic evaluation. Avoid excessive alcohol or certain medications that could affect protein levels.

What Happens During the Test?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The serum is then analyzed using the bromocresol green dye-binding method to measure protein concentration.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are compared to a reference range, but exact values can vary by lab. Low protein levels may indicate malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems, while high levels could suggest dehydration, inflammation, or conditions like multiple myeloma.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Total Protein (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

What causes protein levels to be abnormal?
Abnormal protein levels can result from conditions like liver cirrhosis (low protein), severe infections (elevated globulins), or conditions that cause excessive protein loss (e.g., nephrotic syndrome). Chronic kidney disease or malnutrition may also lead to lower protein levels.
How often should this test be repeated?
Your provider will determine how often to repeat this test based on your symptoms, medical history, and treatment plan. If you have an ongoing condition affecting protein levels, follow-up may be scheduled every few months or as needed.
Can diet or lifestyle changes affect protein test results?
Yes, diet high in protein (e.g., red meat, dairy) or low in protein (e.g., vegetarian diets) can influence results. Avoiding alcohol and certain medications (like NSAIDs) for a few days before testing may help ensure accurate results.
  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