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Serum or plasma mass concentration of total protein

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes albumin and other proteins like globulins.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall protein balance and potential kidney or liver issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58871-5
Short code
GH sp37 SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
GH sp37 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 a total protein test to check for conditions affecting protein production, such as liver disease, kidney problems, or certain immune disorders. It can also help monitor long-term conditions like chronic kidney disease or malnutrition.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Avoid strenuous activity the day before.

How the Test Is Performed

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a brief pinch, but the procedure is quick and usually painless. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported in grams per deciliter (g/dL). Low protein levels may indicate malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems, while high levels could suggest dehydration, multiple myeloma, or other conditions. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes low total protein levels?
Low total protein can result from conditions like liver disease (reducing albumin production), kidney disease (losing protein in urine), severe malnutrition, or chronic infections. It may also occur in cases of excessive protein loss (e.g., from wounds or burns).
What causes high total protein levels?
High total protein can be due to dehydration (reducing fluid volume), multiple myeloma (a blood cancer affecting protein production), or certain autoimmune diseases. Rarely, it may also appear in cases of severe inflammation or dehydration from other causes.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine test frequency based on your health status. For example, people with chronic kidney disease or liver disease may need monitoring more often. Follow-up tests are usually scheduled if you have symptoms like swelling, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue.
  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