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Serum/plasma mass concentration of total protein (electrochemical method)

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

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

Quick summary

["Your doctor may use this test to check for conditions affecting protein balance, such as kidney disease or malnutrition."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58846-7
Short code
GH sp18 SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
GH sp18 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 This Test Is Done

Doctors order total protein tests to monitor conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, or malnutrition. It may also be used during pregnancy or after surgery to track fluid and protein balance.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may drink water but avoid eating or smoking before the blood draw. Tell your doctor about any medications or supplements you take.

What the Results Mean

Lower than expected protein levels might indicate conditions like kidney disease, liver failure, or severe malnutrition. Higher levels could suggest dehydration or conditions like multiple myeloma.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps diagnose or manage conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, or protein-losing syndromes. It can also guide treatment for fluid imbalances.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes protein levels to be low?
Low protein levels can result from conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, severe malnutrition, or certain infections. It may also occur after surgery or trauma.
What causes protein levels to be high?
High protein levels can be due to dehydration, multiple myeloma, or certain types of cancer. Rarely, it may reflect conditions like severe burns or excessive protein intake.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health condition, treatment plan, and overall medical status. Follow-up may be needed if you have chronic illnesses like kidney disease or liver disease.
  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