Serum or plasma **total protein** concentration (mass concentration)
This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein status and potential conditions like malnutrition or kidney disease.
["Total protein levels reflect your body’s protein balance and organ function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71854-4
- Short code
- DO-Hgb MFr.DF BldA
- Synonyms
- DO-Hgb MFr.DF BldA
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 12
- Ref high
- 17.5
- Critical range
- 7 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85018
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003004
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein levels, such as kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or certain infections. It can also help monitor treatment responses in patients with chronic illnesses.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw blood. If you’re fasting, follow your doctor’s instructions to ensure accurate results.
What the Results Mean
Higher-than-normal results may indicate conditions like liver disease, dehydration, or multiple myeloma. Lower-than-normal results could suggest malnutrition, kidney disease, or severe burns. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used to monitor kidney function, liver health, and protein deficiencies. It may also help diagnose or manage conditions like cirrhosis, malnutrition, or inflammatory diseases.
Reference range
Adult males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL; Females: 12.0-16.0 g/dLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: Total protein levels are a simple but important marker for assessing protein synthesis, fluid balance, and organ function. Abnormalities can signal underlying health issues requiring further evaluation.
Short name
Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
What does a high total protein level mean?
What causes low total protein levels?
How often should this test be repeated?
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