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Total Serum Protein (Qualitative Bromocresol Purple Method)

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood serum, which helps assess overall protein balance and potential issues like malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems.

Quick summary

["Your doctor may use this test to check if your body is producing enough protein or if there’s an imbalance in your blood."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
88634-1
Short code
Gram Stn Sal
Synonyms
Gram Stn Sal
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 This Test Is Done

Doctors order this test to evaluate protein levels in your blood, which can indicate conditions such as malnutrition, kidney disease, liver disease, or certain immune system disorders. It may also be used as part of a general health check or to monitor treatment progress.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding, let your doctor know beforehand.

What the Results Mean

Results are qualitative (yes/no or high/low) rather than numerical. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and medical history to determine if further tests or treatment is needed.

Common Conditions This Test Helps Diagnose

Low protein levels might suggest conditions like severe malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver failure. High protein levels could indicate dehydration, inflammation, or certain blood disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Protein Qualitative Test

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my test results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will contact you to discuss the findings.
What does a low or high protein level mean exactly?
This test doesn’t provide exact numbers, but it helps determine if your protein levels are too low or too high. Your doctor will explain what these findings mean for your health and if additional tests are needed.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
You can eat and drink normally before this test, as no special diet is required. However, avoid alcohol or heavy meals 24 hours before your appointment if instructed by your doctor.
  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