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Serum or Plasma 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, which includes albumin and other proteins like globulins. Protein is essential for maintaining healthy tissues, fluids, and immune function.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall protein balance and can signal potential nutritional deficiencies or liver/kidney issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
20807-4
Short code
EAV Bld Ql Cult
Synonyms
EAV Bld Ql Cult
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
organism-specific-culture
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, kidney problems, or certain infections. It can also help monitor protein loss due to conditions like kidney disease or burns.

What Does a Result Mean?

Results are not provided with specific reference ranges. Your doctor will interpret the result in relation to your overall health and symptoms. Low protein levels may indicate poor nutrition or organ dysfunction, while very high levels could suggest dehydration or certain diseases.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein for blood collection. If you’re fasting, follow your doctor’s instructions.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab where it’s analyzed using the bromocresol green dye method to measure protein concentration.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

How does total protein relate to my health?
Total protein levels can reflect your body’s ability to produce and maintain proteins, which are vital for many bodily functions. Low levels may signal malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems, while high levels could indicate dehydration or certain medical conditions. Your doctor will use this test alongside other factors to guide diagnosis.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No specific fasting is required for this test. However, always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions if they’ve given any special instructions for your test.
What are common causes of abnormal protein levels?
Abnormal protein levels can result from conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, kidney disease, infections, or certain cancers. High protein levels may also occur with dehydration or certain medications. Your doctor will discuss possible causes with you based on your test results and medical history.
  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