Skip to content

Total Protein in Serum

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood serum, which helps assess overall protein levels and potential nutritional or liver issues.

Quick summary

["Your blood protein levels can signal health risks like malnutrition, kidney problems, or liver disease."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
649-4
Short code
Gram Stn Stl
Synonyms
Gram Stn Stl
Category
chemistry
Sample
stool
Container
Clean container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
gram-stain
Specimen volume
5 g
Stability
Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Matters

Blood proteins, including albumin and globulins, play key roles in maintaining fluid balance, supporting immunity, and transporting nutrients. Low or high protein levels may indicate conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney dysfunction.

What to Expect During the Test

A simple blood draw is used to collect serum. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised depending on your doctor’s instructions.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions such as malnutrition, liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis), kidney disease, or chronic inflammation.

Factors That Can Affect Results

Diet, hydration status, certain medications, and underlying health conditions (e.g., liver or kidney disease) can influence protein levels.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What does a low total protein level mean?
Low protein levels may suggest malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems. Your doctor will review your full clinical picture to determine the cause.
What does a high total protein level mean?
High protein levels can occur with dehydration, multiple myeloma, or severe infections. Further testing may be needed to identify the exact cause.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will decide how often to check your protein levels based on your health needs, such as monitoring chronic conditions or assessing nutritional status.
  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