Total Protein with Albumin and Globulin Profile (Serum)
This test measures your blood’s total protein and separates it into albumin and globulin components, which help assess overall protein health and potential imbalances.
["Understanding your protein balance can help detect conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, or immune disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 88635-8
- Short code
- Gram Stn Vom
- Synonyms
- Gram Stn Vom
- 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 Each Component Represent?
Albumin is the most abundant protein in your blood, helping maintain fluid balance and transport nutrients. Globulins include antibodies and other proteins that support immunity and blood clotting. Together, they reflect your body’s protein synthesis and breakdown processes.
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your doctor may order this test to evaluate kidney function, liver health, nutritional status, or signs of chronic diseases like inflammation or infection. It can also help diagnose conditions affecting protein synthesis or breakdown.
Common Conditions Linked to Abnormal Results
Low total protein or albumin may indicate malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems. High globulin levels could signal chronic infections, autoimmune disorders, or certain cancers. Abnormal ratios may suggest underlying metabolic or inflammatory conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may fast for 8–12 hours before the blood draw if your doctor specifies it. Wear comfortable clothing and arrive with an ID for verification.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Total Protein & Fractional Breakdown
Frequently asked questions
How long will results take to return?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Does this test require fasting?
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