Total Protein in Serum (Electrophoresis)
This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood serum, which includes proteins like albumin and globulins. Proteins help maintain fluid balance, support immune function, and transport nutrients.
["Blood protein levels can reflect overall health, hydration status, and certain medical conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 63398-2
- Short code
- ENA RNP Ab Fld IA-aCnc
- Synonyms
- ENA RNP Ab Fld IA-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- 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 like malnutrition, kidney disease, liver problems, or infections. It can also help diagnose or monitor diseases such as multiple myeloma, nephrotic syndrome, or chronic inflammatory conditions.
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 is not always required for protein electrophoresis alone. Bring any medications or questions to your appointment.
How the Test Is Performed
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis, where proteins are separated and measured using electrophoresis.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported as a total protein concentration in grams per deciliter (g/dL). Abnormal results may indicate imbalances in protein types, which can signal underlying health issues.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Changes in total protein levels can signal conditions like dehydration, severe infections, liver or kidney disease, or certain cancers. Low protein levels may indicate malnutrition or excessive protein loss, while high levels could suggest conditions like multiple myeloma or chronic inflammation.
Short name
Total Serum Protein
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal protein levels in blood tests?
How long does it take to get my protein test results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
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