Serum or Plasma Total Protein by Bromocresol Green (BCG) Method
This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes both albumin and globulin proteins. Protein is essential for maintaining fluid balance, supporting immune function, and transporting nutrients.
["Total protein levels help assess hydration, liver function, and overall protein synthesis in your body."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 58868-1
- Short code
- GH sp40 SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- GH sp40 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 production, such as liver disease, kidney problems, or malnutrition. It can also help diagnose or monitor conditions like edema (fluid retention), malnutrition, or certain immune disorders.
What Does a Result Mean?
Results may be used to compare against general reference ranges to identify potential imbalances. For example, low protein levels might suggest liver disease or malabsorption, while very high levels could indicate dehydration or multiple myeloma.
Common Conditions Affecting Protein Levels
Conditions like chronic liver disease, kidney failure, or severe infections can alter protein levels. Certain medications or dietary factors may also influence these measurements.
What Preparations Are Needed?
No special preparation is typically required, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test if instructed by your provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Total protein levels are clinically significant because they reflect overall protein status in the body. Abnormalities can indicate underlying health issues requiring further evaluation, such as nutritional deficiencies or organ dysfunction.
Short name
Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
What if my protein levels are outside the normal range?
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