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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 both albumin and globulin proteins. Proteins are essential for maintaining fluid balance, supporting immune function, and transporting nutrients.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall health, kidney function, and potential protein-losing conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
22278-6
Short code
ECV6 Ab Titr Ser
Synonyms
ECV6 Ab Titr Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 It’s Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, liver disease, or chronic inflammation. It can also help diagnose or monitor protein-losing syndromes, such as nephrotic syndrome, or check for dehydration or overhydration.

How It’s Performed

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is processed to separate serum or plasma, then analyzed using a bromocresol green dye binding method to quantify protein concentration.

What to Expect Before or After

No special preparation is typically needed, but inform your provider about medications or conditions that might affect results. After the draw, you may experience mild bruising or soreness at the site, which usually resolves quickly.

Possible Results and Interpretation

Results are compared to standard ranges, though individual values can vary based on age, health status, and other factors. Low protein levels may indicate malnutrition, liver/kidney disease, or excessive protein loss, while very high levels could signal dehydration or conditions like multiple myeloma.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein (BCG)

Frequently asked questions

What does a low total protein result mean?
A low total protein result may signal underlying health issues such as malnutrition, liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis), or kidney problems (e.g., nephrotic syndrome). It can also reflect conditions like chronic inflammation or excessive protein loss through urine or stool. Your provider will discuss these findings in detail with you.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your medical condition and treatment plan. Routine blood tests may include this test occasionally, while patients with chronic diseases (e.g., kidney or liver disease) might need it more regularly. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations.
Can diet affect this test result?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. High-protein diets or conditions like celiac disease (which can damage the intestines and reduce protein absorption) may alter results. Avoiding large meals 24 hours before testing can help ensure accurate results, but always confirm with your provider.
  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