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Serum/plasma mass concentration of total protein

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

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood serum or plasma, which helps assess overall protein levels in your body.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps identify potential protein deficiencies or excesses that may affect health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
56502-8
Short code
GH 7h p chal SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
GH 7h 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?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, liver problems, or certain infections. It can also help monitor treatment responses or diagnose fluid imbalances.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein (venipuncture) to draw blood. If you’re fasting, follow your provider’s instructions.

What the Results Mean

Higher-than-normal levels might suggest conditions like dehydration, liver disease, or multiple myeloma. Lower-than-normal levels could indicate malnutrition, kidney disease, or severe burns.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to monitor kidney function, liver health, nutritional status, or fluid balance in patients with chronic illnesses.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What does a high total protein level mean?
A high total protein level may indicate conditions like dehydration, liver disease, or certain cancers (e.g., multiple myeloma). Your provider will discuss further tests or symptoms if needed.
What does a low total protein level mean?
A low total protein level may suggest malnutrition, kidney disease, severe burns, or conditions that cause excessive protein loss (e.g., chronic diarrhea). Your provider will review your medical history and other test results.
Can diet affect total protein test results?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. High-protein diets or certain medical conditions may temporarily alter results. Your provider may recommend fasting or specific dietary adjustments for accurate results.
  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