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Total Protein in Serum

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the overall amount of protein in your blood serum, which includes albumin and globulin proteins essential for maintaining fluid balance, immune function, and tissue repair.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall health and detect conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47905-5
Short code
GH 2h p Orn SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
GH 2h p Orn SerPl-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
17
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 It Matters in Your Health

Blood proteins play key roles in your body’s health. Total protein levels can signal whether you have enough protein to support your cells, organs, or immune system. Low levels may indicate poor nutrition or organ dysfunction, while high levels could suggest conditions like dehydration, inflammation, or certain cancers.

What to Expect During the Test

A small blood sample is taken from your arm, usually by a healthcare professional. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to determine your total protein concentration. Results are typically available within a few days.

Common Conditions Affecting Results

Changes in total protein can occur with conditions like chronic kidney disease (which may reduce protein levels), liver disease (which can alter protein synthesis), severe infections, or dehydration. Certain medications or dietary changes may also impact results.

How Results Are Interpreted

Your results are compared to a general reference range, though individual ranges can vary by lab. While absolute values are important, the context of your health history and symptoms is equally critical for accurate interpretation.

Reference range

NCBI: NSE 0-17 ng/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Total Protein Levels

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What might cause my total protein test result to be low?
Low total protein levels may be due to malnutrition, kidney disease, liver problems, or conditions that cause excessive protein loss (e.g., severe infections, burns, or certain cancers). Your doctor may also check for underlying causes like chronic inflammation or hormonal imbalances.
What could high total protein levels indicate?
High total protein levels can result from dehydration, inflammation, multiple myeloma (a blood cancer), or other conditions that increase protein production. In some cases, it may also reflect dehydration or certain autoimmune diseases.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is needed, but avoid heavy meals or excessive fluids 2 hours before your blood draw. If you’re on certain medications or have a history of bleeding disorders, let your healthcare provider know.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy