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Total Protein with Albumin Ratio (Serum/Plasma)

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

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

Quick summary

["A P/A ratio helps doctors check for protein loss or kidney issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
63317-2
Short code
ENA RNP Ab Fld Ql ID
Synonyms
ENA RNP Ab Fld Ql ID
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
immune-diffusion
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 you have symptoms like swelling, weight changes, or signs of kidney problems. It can also be used to monitor conditions like liver disease, malnutrition, or kidney disease.

How the Test Works

Blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where protein and albumin levels are measured. The ratio is calculated by dividing total protein by albumin concentration.

What the Results Mean

A lower-than-expected ratio may suggest conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, or protein loss in urine. A higher-than-expected ratio might indicate dehydration or overproduction of protein.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to monitor kidney function, liver disease, malnutrition, or chronic conditions like heart failure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: The P/A ratio can provide insights into overall protein metabolism and organ health. Abnormal results may indicate underlying issues that need further evaluation, such as kidney filtration problems or systemic inflammation.

Short name

Protein-Albumin Ratio (P/A Ratio)

Frequently asked questions

What causes a low protein-albumin ratio?
A low P/A ratio can be caused by kidney disease (where protein is lost in urine), liver disease (which affects protein production), malnutrition, or conditions causing excessive protein loss, such as nephrotic syndrome.
What does a high protein-albumin ratio usually mean?
A high P/A ratio may suggest dehydration, overproduction of protein (like in multiple myeloma), or conditions that increase total protein without proportionally increasing albumin, such as severe burns or certain infections.
How often should this test be repeated?
Your doctor will determine how often to repeat this test based on your medical condition and symptoms. If you have a chronic illness, follow-up may be scheduled regularly to monitor changes in your protein balance.
  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