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Serum or plasma concentration of total protein

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

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein status and identify potential issues like malnutrition, kidney problems, or liver disease.

Quick summary

["Total protein levels can signal underlying health concerns that may need further evaluation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47921-2
Short code
GH 45M p GRF SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
GH 45M p GRF SerPl-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
86430
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, breakdown, or retention in the body. It’s often used alongside other blood tests to diagnose or monitor diseases like kidney disease, liver disease, malnutrition, or certain infections.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re using blood thinner medication, let your healthcare provider know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a range, but exact values depend on the lab. High or low protein levels may indicate conditions like dehydration, kidney disease, or protein-losing disorders. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps monitor conditions such as chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, malnutrition, or inflammatory diseases. It can also be used to evaluate fluid balance or response to treatments like dialysis.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes low protein levels in my blood?
Low protein levels can result from conditions like liver disease (reducing protein synthesis), kidney disease (losing protein in urine), malnutrition, or severe infections. Chronic conditions like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease may also contribute. Your doctor may recommend additional tests to identify the cause.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. If you have a chronic condition like kidney or liver disease, your doctor may order this test regularly. For routine check-ups or suspected malnutrition, it may be done less often. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations.
Can diet affect my protein test results?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. High-protein diets or deficiencies in protein-rich foods may temporarily alter results. Avoid extreme dietary changes before testing, and discuss your diet with your doctor if results seem inconsistent with your health status.
  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