Serum/plasma mass concentration of total protein
This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein levels and kidney function.
["Total protein helps diagnose conditions like kidney disease or malnutrition."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 58848-3
- Short code
- GH sp16 SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- GH sp16 SerPl-mCnc
- 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 affecting protein balance, such as kidney disease, liver problems, or malnutrition. It can also help monitor treatment responses in certain conditions.
What Does a High or Low Protein Level Mean?
High protein levels might indicate dehydration, liver disease, or certain cancers. Low protein levels could signal kidney disease, malnutrition, or severe infections.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then separated into serum or plasma for testing. This test does not require fasting.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used to evaluate kidney function, detect liver disease, assess nutritional status, or screen for conditions like multiple myeloma or nephrotic syndrome.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What are the typical reference ranges?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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