Skip to content

Total Protein in Serum

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

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

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
61279-6
Short code
English Walnut IgE/IgE total %
Synonyms
English Walnut IgE/IgE total %
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?

Doctors may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein production, such as liver disease, kidney problems, malnutrition, or certain infections. It can also help monitor protein loss due to conditions like kidney disease or excessive protein in urine (proteinuria).

What Does a Result Mean?

Higher-than-normal levels might indicate dehydration, liver disease, or conditions that cause protein to leak into urine. Lower-than-normal levels could suggest malnutrition, liver or kidney disease, or excessive protein loss. However, individual results depend on your health and medical history.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum (the liquid part after clotting), which is then tested. This test does not require fasting but may be influenced by recent meals or certain medications.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, malnutrition, or inflammatory diseases. It can also help evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for these conditions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What Are the Possible Causes of Abnormal Results?
High total protein levels may be due to dehydration, liver disease, or conditions causing protein to leak into urine (e.g., nephrotic syndrome). Low levels may result from malnutrition, liver or kidney disease, or excessive protein loss through urine or stool.
How Often Should This Test Be Done?
Frequency depends on your medical condition. If you have chronic kidney or liver disease, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring. For acute conditions, follow-up tests may be scheduled based on symptoms and treatment progress.
Can Diet or Medications Affect This Test?
Yes, certain foods (like high-protein diets) or medications (e.g., steroids, diuretics) can influence results. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications or dietary changes 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