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Total Protein in 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 your body’s protein balance and can signal conditions affecting protein production or kidney function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14365-1
Short code
Gram Stn Ear
Synonyms
Gram Stn Ear
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
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 autoimmune disorders. It can also help monitor protein loss due to conditions like nephrotic syndrome or chronic kidney disease.

What Does the Result Mean?

Higher-than-normal results may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or dehydration. Lower-than-normal results could suggest malnutrition, liver or kidney disease, or excessive protein loss.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis. The test measures the combined weight of all proteins in the serum portion of your blood.

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?

Abnormal results can stem from underlying health issues like chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, or certain cancers. Other factors, such as diet, hydration status, or medications, may also influence protein levels.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What does a high total protein level mean in my results?
A high total protein level may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or dehydration. Your doctor will consider your overall health and symptoms to determine the cause.
What if my total protein level is lower than expected?
A low total protein level could be due to malnutrition, liver or kidney disease, or excessive protein loss. Your doctor may recommend further tests or lifestyle changes to address the underlying issue.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health condition. If you have a chronic illness like kidney disease or liver disease, your doctor may order this test regularly. Otherwise, it’s usually done as needed for diagnosis or monitoring.
  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