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Serum or plasma concentration of total protein by nephelometry

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

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps doctors assess overall health, kidney function, and nutritional status.

Quick summary

["Total protein levels can signal kidney issues, liver problems, or dehydration."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
79179-8
Short code
GH 75M p chal SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
GH 75M p chal 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
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 order total protein tests to check for conditions like kidney disease (where protein leaks into urine), liver disease (which affects protein production), or malnutrition. It may also be used to monitor treatment responses or diagnose fluid imbalances.

What Does the Result Mean?

Results are not provided with specific numeric ranges here, but abnormal levels may indicate potential health concerns. High levels might suggest dehydration, liver disease, or multiple myeloma, while low levels could signal kidney disease, malnutrition, or severe infections.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab where it’s analyzed using nephelometry, a method that measures how much light scatters from proteins in the blood.

What Should You Expect Before or After the Test?

No special preparation is needed, but avoid strenuous activity 24 hours before the test. After drawing blood, you may feel slight discomfort, but it should resolve quickly. Rest if you feel dizzy or lightheaded.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes high or low protein levels?
High protein levels may be due to dehydration, liver disease, or conditions like multiple myeloma. Low protein levels often result from kidney disease, malnutrition, or chronic infections.
Can diet affect this test?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. High-protein diets may temporarily raise levels, while poor nutrition or excessive fluid intake can lower them. Doctors may adjust diet recommendations based on test results.
How often should this test be repeated?
Frequency depends on your health condition. If you have an ongoing issue like kidney or liver disease, your doctor may order this test regularly to monitor changes. Follow-up schedules are personalized.
  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