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Serum or plasma mass concentration of total protein

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

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein status and potential nutritional or kidney-related issues.

Quick summary

["Total protein levels can signal whether you’re losing protein (e.g., due to kidney disease) or need to monitor protein intake (e.g., in malnutrition)."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58864-0
Short code
GH sp44 SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
GH sp44 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?

Doctors may order a total protein test to check for conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or certain infections. It can also help evaluate protein loss from wounds, burns, or other health concerns.

What Does It Measure?

Total protein includes albumin and globulins. Albumin helps maintain fluid balance, while globulins support immune function. Abnormal levels may point to underlying health issues.

Sample Collection

Blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for testing. You may feel a brief pinch, but most people tolerate it well.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about any medications or conditions that might affect results, such as kidney disease or liver issues.

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?
Low protein levels can result from poor nutrition, kidney disease (where protein is lost in urine), liver disease (which affects protein production), or conditions causing excessive protein loss (e.g., wounds, burns).
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Follow-up with your doctor if you have questions about the results.
Can diet affect this test?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. High-protein diets may raise levels, while low-protein diets or malnutrition may lower them. Your doctor may recommend dietary adjustments if needed.
  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