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Total Protein (Serum)

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

["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
7276-9
Short code
D farinae IgG Qn
Synonyms
D farinae IgG Qn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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

What Is Protein in Blood?

Proteins in your blood serve many vital functions, including transporting nutrients, fighting infections, and maintaining fluid balance. Total protein reflects the combined weight of these proteins, primarily albumin and globulins.

Why Might This Test Be Ordered?

Doctors may order this test to check for conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, kidney disease, or dehydration. It can also help monitor chronic conditions like kidney disease or inflammatory disorders.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The serum (liquid part after blood clotting) is then analyzed to measure total protein levels.

What Do Results Mean?

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

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes low total protein levels?
Low protein levels can result from conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, kidney disease, or severe infections. It may also occur if you’re not absorbing nutrients properly, such as in gastrointestinal disorders.
What causes high total protein levels?
High protein levels are less common but can occur with dehydration, certain cancers (like multiple myeloma), or in some inflammatory conditions. Rarely, it may reflect an error in sample handling or processing.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is usually needed, but avoid heavy meals before the test. If you’re on certain medications (like diuretics), discuss this with your doctor, as they may affect 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