Serum or plasma mass concentration of serum protein (total protein)
This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, including albumin and other proteins like globulins. Proteins help maintain fluid balance, support immune function, and transport nutrients.
["Total protein levels can indicate overall health, hydration status, or potential protein-related conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 58879-8
- Short code
- GH sp28 SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- GH sp28 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 like kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or dehydration. It can also help monitor protein loss due to conditions like kidney failure or certain immune disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast before the test if your provider specifies, but this is less common for total protein. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking to your appointment.
How the Test Works
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure the total protein content, often using a method like nephelometry or turbidimetry.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported in grams per deciliter (g/dL). Low levels may suggest malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems, while high levels could indicate dehydration, multiple myeloma, or severe infections.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Total protein levels can provide important clues about your body’s overall protein status. Low levels may signal conditions affecting protein synthesis or absorption, such as liver disease or chronic kidney disease. High levels might indicate conditions like dehydration, severe infections, or certain cancers. Monitoring these levels helps healthcare providers diagnose and manage underlying health issues effectively.
Short name
Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
What causes low total protein levels?
What causes high total protein levels?
How often should I get 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