Total Serum Protein with Albumin-to-Globulin Ratio (Serum)
This test measures your total protein in blood and evaluates the balance between albumin and globulin proteins, which helps assess overall protein status and potential issues like malnutrition or inflammation.
["Check protein health and protein-globulin balance in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14359-4
- Short code
- Gram Stn Prt
- Synonyms
- Gram Stn Prt
- 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
What Does This Test Measure?
Total protein combines albumin and globulin proteins, which are vital for maintaining blood volume, immune function, and tissue repair. The albumin-to-globulin ratio compares these two components to identify imbalances that may signal conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver problems, or malnutrition.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may request this test to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting protein levels, such as kidney disease, liver disease, malnutrition, or autoimmune disorders. It can also help evaluate responses to treatments for these conditions.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure total protein and the ratio of albumin to globulin using standard laboratory techniques.
What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
Low total protein or abnormal ratios may indicate conditions like malnutrition, chronic kidney disease, liver disease, or severe infections. High levels could suggest dehydration, multiple myeloma, or certain inflammatory diseases.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein levels or ratios can provide critical clues about underlying health issues, guiding treatment decisions to address protein deficiencies, inflammation, or organ dysfunction.
Short name
Serum Protein Profile
Frequently asked questions
What does a low total protein or abnormal albumin-to-globulin ratio mean for my health?
How often should I expect to have this test repeated?
Can diet or lifestyle changes affect protein test results?
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