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Serum/plasma mass concentration of total serum protein

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

This test measures the total amount of protein found in your blood serum or plasma.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall protein levels in your blood, which can indicate hydration, kidney function, or liver health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
27881-2
Short code
GH sp4 p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
GH sp4 p chal 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 nephrotic syndrome, severe dehydration, or certain types of anemia.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves a blood draw. Wear loose clothing and fasten your shirt if needed for easy access.

During the Test

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s typically over quickly. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a general reference range, though individual ranges can vary by lab. Low protein levels may signal conditions like liver disease or kidney failure, while very high levels could indicate dehydration or multiple myeloma.

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 liver disease (reducing protein synthesis), kidney problems (losing protein in urine), malnutrition, severe dehydration, or conditions like cirrhosis or chronic kidney disease.
What causes high total protein levels?
High protein levels may occur with dehydration (concentrated blood), multiple myeloma (cancer of plasma cells), or severe infections/inflammations. Rarely, it can be genetic or due to certain medications.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. Your doctor may recommend it annually if you have chronic conditions like liver disease or kidney problems, or more often if symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or weight changes appear.
  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