Skip to content

Total Protein in Serum (or Plasma)

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

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein levels and kidney function.

Quick summary

["Blood protein levels can signal kidney health or other health concerns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
109916-7
Short code
ENA SS-B Ab Msmt Fld
Synonyms
ENA SS-B Ab Msmt Fld
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or dehydration. It can also help monitor treatments for certain conditions.

What Does the Result Mean?

Higher-than-normal protein levels might indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, severe dehydration, or liver disease. Lower-than-normal levels could suggest malnutrition, kidney disease, or certain infections.

How Is This Test Performed?

A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure total protein content.

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?

Abnormal results may be linked to underlying health issues such as kidney disease, liver disorders, infections, or certain cancers. Your provider will discuss these findings with you during your follow-up.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Total protein levels are a general marker of protein status in the body. Elevated levels may reflect conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver disease, or protein-losing syndromes. Low levels can indicate malnutrition, kidney dysfunction, or conditions that cause excessive protein loss (e.g., nephrotic syndrome). Monitoring protein levels is important for diagnosing and managing these conditions.

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health condition and why the test was ordered. Your healthcare provider will determine the best timing for follow-up tests based on your specific situation.
What do I need to do before the test?
Typically, you may need to fast for a few hours before the blood draw, but always follow your provider’s instructions. Avoid strenuous activity and inform your provider about any medications or supplements you’re taking.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
Check with your healthcare provider about fasting requirements. Some tests may allow water, while others require fasting. It’s best to avoid food for a specified period before the test to ensure accurate results.
  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