Serum/plasma concentration of total protein by nephelometry
This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein levels and identify potential imbalances.
["Total protein levels can signal kidney function, nutritional status, or other health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 60598-0
- Short code
- Face all Skull XR
- Synonyms
- Face all Skull XR
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 5
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- xr-measured
- CPT
- 82378
- SNOMED
- 394995008
- 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 evaluate kidney function, check for protein-losing conditions (like nephrotic syndrome), or assess nutritional status if you have symptoms such as swelling, weight changes, or fatigue.
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’s part of a broader panel, but this depends on the specific order. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking.
What Happens During the Test?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is processed to measure protein concentration using a specialized lab technique called nephelometry.
What Do Results Mean?
Results are compared to standard ranges to identify whether protein levels are too high or too low. Abnormal results may prompt further testing or follow-up to explore underlying causes.
Reference range
Non-smokers: <2.5 ng/mL; Smokers: <5.0 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation required. For PSA, avoid sexual activity for 24-48 hours before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated total protein may indicate conditions like dehydration, chronic inflammation, or certain cancers. Low levels often signal malnutrition, liver disease, kidney problems, or excessive protein loss (e.g., from kidney disease or heavy bleeding). Monitoring protein levels helps guide treatment for conditions like chronic kidney disease or severe infections.
Short name
Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
What causes high total protein levels?
What causes low total protein levels?
Do I need to avoid certain foods 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