Skip to content

Total Protein (Serum)

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

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

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
72408-8
Short code
Gram Stn Anal
Synonyms
Gram Stn Anal
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
gram-stain
CPT
86038
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, malnutrition, or certain immune disorders. It can also help monitor treatment responses or diagnose conditions like protein-losing syndromes.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a more extensive blood workup, but this isn’t always required for just total protein. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking.

What Happens 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 usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are typically reported in grams per deciliter (g/dL). Lower than expected levels may suggest malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems, while higher levels could indicate dehydration, inflammation, or conditions like multiple myeloma.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Total protein levels can indicate systemic health issues. Low protein levels may signal poor nutrient absorption, liver dysfunction, or chronic diseases like cirrhosis or kidney failure. High levels might point to dehydration, severe infections, or certain cancers. Monitoring protein levels helps guide treatment for conditions like protein-losing gastrointestinal diseases or immune disorders.

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What does a low total protein level mean?
A low total protein level could indicate underlying health problems such as liver disease, kidney disease, malnutrition, or certain infections. It may also be linked to conditions that cause excessive protein loss, like chronic diarrhea or protein-losing enteropathies. Your provider will discuss these findings with you and may recommend further testing or adjustments to your diet or treatment plan.
What causes high total protein levels?
High total protein levels can result from dehydration, severe infections (like sepsis), or conditions that increase protein production, such as multiple myeloma or certain cancers. Chronic inflammation or exposure to certain medications may also play a role. Your healthcare provider will review your results alongside other symptoms and tests to determine the cause.
Can diet affect total protein test results?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. Eating a balanced diet rich in high-quality proteins (like lean meats, eggs, dairy, or plant-based sources) supports normal protein levels. However, extreme dietary changes—such as very low-protein diets—may temporarily alter results. Your provider may recommend dietary adjustments if protein levels are out of range, especially if related to conditions like kidney disease or malnutrition.
  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