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Serum or plasma concentration of total protein (including albumin and globulins)

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes both albumin and other proteins like globulins.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall protein balance and potential nutritional or liver issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
97244-8
Short code
EDDP TissCo Ql Scn
Synonyms
EDDP TissCo Ql Scn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
screen
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein levels, such as malnutrition, liver disease, kidney problems, or certain infections. It can also help evaluate fluid balance or diagnose conditions like edema or protein-losing syndromes.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves a blood draw, but this depends on your doctor’s instructions. Avoid heavy meals or alcohol before testing.

During the Test

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually takes only a few minutes. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to standard ranges for your age and sex. Low protein levels may indicate malnutrition, liver or kidney disease, or excessive protein loss (e.g., from wounds or chronic conditions). High levels could suggest dehydration, inflammation, or certain cancers.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: serum

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Total Protein Levels

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What does my total protein test result tell me about my health?
A low total protein level may signal underlying issues like poor nutrition, liver dysfunction, or kidney disease. High levels could point to dehydration, chronic inflammation, or conditions that increase protein synthesis. Always discuss your results with your doctor for personalized interpretation.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health status, symptoms, or ongoing conditions. Regular monitoring may be recommended if you have chronic illnesses like liver disease or kidney problems.
Can diet affect my total protein test results?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. High-protein diets may temporarily raise protein levels, while poor nutrition or excessive fluid intake could lower them. Follow your doctor’s advice on timing and diet before testing.
  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