Serum/plasma quantitative measurement of total protein concentration (mass concentration)
This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps your body stay healthy by transporting nutrients, fighting infections, and maintaining fluid balance.
["Total protein levels can signal health issues or help monitor conditions like kidney disease or malnutrition."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 105903-9
- Short code
- EAEC pAA plas aggR+aatA genes Stl Ql
- Synonyms
- EAEC pAA plas aggR+aatA genes Stl Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- stool
- Container
- Clean container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 g
- Stability
- Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does Total Protein Tell Us About My Health?
Total protein includes both albumin and globulin proteins. Albumin helps maintain blood pressure and fluid balance, while globulins support immune function. Abnormal levels may indicate conditions like liver disease, kidney problems, or severe infections.
Why Might My Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may order a total protein test to check for kidney function, liver health, nutritional status, or signs of chronic diseases like multiple myeloma or cirrhosis.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure protein concentration using standard laboratory techniques.
What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
Low protein levels may result from malnutrition, liver disease, kidney failure, or excessive protein loss (e.g., from chronic diarrhea or kidney disease). High protein levels could indicate dehydration, multiple myeloma, or severe infections.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated total protein can sometimes signal dehydration or conditions like multiple myeloma, where abnormal protein production occurs. Low levels often point to malnutrition, liver or kidney disease, or conditions causing excessive protein loss. Follow-up testing may be needed to determine the exact cause.
Short name
Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What do my results mean if they’re outside the normal range?
Can diet affect my total protein test results?
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