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Total Protein with Serum Albumin Ratio (Serum)

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

This test measures the ratio of total protein to albumin in your blood serum, which can help assess protein balance and potential liver or kidney function issues.

Quick summary

["Understanding your protein balance may help identify health concerns like malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
45059-3
Short code
E chaff IgG+IgM Pnl ?Tm Titr Ser IF
Synonyms
E chaff IgG+IgM Pnl ?Tm Titr Ser IF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
if
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

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if they suspect conditions affecting protein metabolism, such as liver disease, kidney disease, or malnutrition. It can also be part of routine check-ups or monitoring for chronic conditions.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. Avoid eating or drinking for 8–12 hours before if specified by your provider.

What the Results Mean

A higher ratio might indicate liver disease (reduced albumin) or protein loss (e.g., in kidney disease). A lower ratio could suggest malnutrition or overproduction of globulins (e.g., in infections or inflammation). Your results will be compared to your individual baseline and clinical context.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps diagnose or monitor liver cirrhosis, chronic kidney disease, malnutrition, or inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Protein-Albumin Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low protein-albumin ratio indicate?
A high ratio could suggest liver disease (reduced albumin) or conditions causing increased globulins (e.g., infections, autoimmune diseases). A low ratio may indicate malnutrition or kidney issues causing protein loss.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine frequency based on your health needs. It may be part of routine check-ups, monitoring chronic conditions, or after symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss appear.
Can diet affect this test result?
Yes—high-protein diets may temporarily alter albumin levels. Follow your provider’s instructions for fasting or dietary restrictions if applicable.
  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