Skip to content

Total Protein in Serum

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

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

Quick summary

["Your blood protein levels help assess overall health and detect potential issues like malnutrition or kidney problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
27157-7
Short code
Deprecated S pneum9 Ab sp2 Ser-mCnc
Synonyms
Deprecated S pneum9 Ab sp2 Ser-mCnc
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 This Test Matters

Blood proteins play a crucial role in maintaining your body’s balance of fluids, supporting immune function, and transporting nutrients. Measuring total protein helps doctors diagnose conditions like liver disease, kidney disease, or malnutrition.

What to Expect During the Test

A small blood sample is drawn from your arm, usually at a lab or your doctor’s office. The sample is processed to measure protein levels without further preparation needed.

Common Conditions Monitored

High or low protein levels may signal problems such as dehydration, liver or kidney disease, or certain immune disorders. Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like swelling, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue.

Factors That Can Affect Results

Certain medications, diet, or medical conditions (like kidney disease) can influence protein levels. Recent blood loss, dehydration, or severe infections may temporarily alter results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

How is this test used in medical care?
This test is often used to evaluate overall protein status, screen for conditions affecting protein synthesis or loss (e.g., liver or kidney disease), and monitor treatment responses in patients with chronic illnesses.
What does a low protein level usually indicate?
Low protein levels may suggest malnutrition, liver disease, kidney disease, or conditions that cause excessive protein loss (e.g., severe burns, chronic diarrhea). Your doctor will consider other symptoms and test results to diagnose the cause.
Can diet affect my protein test results?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. Very low-protein diets or long-term malnutrition may lead to lower protein results, while certain medications (e.g., steroids) or medical conditions may also impact them. Always discuss your diet and medications with your healthcare provider before or after testing.
  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