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Serum or plasma mass concentration of total protein

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes albumin and other proteins like globulins. Proteins are essential for maintaining fluid balance, supporting immune function, and transporting nutrients.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess hydration, liver function, and overall protein status in your body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
93706-0
Short code
ETG EtS Ur Scn-mCnc
Synonyms
ETG EtS Ur Scn-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
screen
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein levels, such as kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or dehydration. It can also help diagnose or monitor certain medical conditions like nephrotic syndrome or severe infections.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Wear a loose shirt for easy access to your arm.

How the Test Is Performed

A healthcare professional will insert a needle into a vein in your arm to draw blood. You may feel a small pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort afterward. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to standard ranges, but exact values can vary based on lab methods and individual health factors. Low protein levels may indicate conditions like kidney disease or malnutrition, while very high levels could suggest conditions like multiple myeloma or severe dehydration.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes low total protein levels?
Low total protein levels can be caused by conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, severe infections, or certain medications. It may also occur if you’re not absorbing nutrients properly from food.
What causes high total protein levels?
High total protein levels can result from dehydration, severe inflammation, multiple myeloma (a blood cancer), or other conditions that increase protein production in the body. Rarely, it may also be due to certain medications or lab errors.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency of this test depends on your health condition and why it was ordered. Your healthcare provider will determine how often you need it based on your individual needs and ongoing treatment.
  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