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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

["Your blood protein levels help your body stay healthy by supporting immunity, fluid balance, and tissue repair."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
27403-5
Short code
GGT Ur-cCnc
Synonyms
GGT Ur-cCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
8
Ref high
61
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82977
SNOMED
3110003
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 Is This Test Done?

Doctors may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein production, such as liver disease, kidney problems, or malnutrition. It can also help diagnose or monitor conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, or certain immune disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may fast before the test if instructed, but your doctor will confirm. Bring any medications you’re currently taking.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s usually over quickly. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What Do Results Mean?

Results help identify if your protein levels are too high or too low. High levels might suggest dehydration or certain diseases, while low levels could indicate liver, kidney, or digestive issues.

Reference range

Adult males: 8-61 U/L; Adult females: 5-36 U/LN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

Why did my doctor order this test?
Your doctor may have suspected conditions like liver disease, kidney problems, malnutrition, or immune disorders based on your symptoms or medical history. This test helps confirm or rule out these possibilities.
What are normal protein levels?
Normal ranges can vary by lab, but typical values for total protein in serum are usually between 6.0 to 8.0 grams per deciliter (g/dL). Your specific range will be provided by your lab report.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Check with your doctor or lab technician about fasting requirements. Some tests may require fasting, while others do not. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals before the test if instructed.
  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