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Total Protein in Serum (Bromocresol Purple Method)

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood serum, which includes important proteins like albumin and globulins that help maintain fluid balance, support immunity, and transport nutrients.

Quick summary

["Your blood protein levels can indicate overall health, hydration, or potential medical conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
57912-8
Short code
Green Bean IgE/IgE total %
Synonyms
Green Bean IgE/IgE total %
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein production, such as liver disease, kidney problems, or malnutrition. It can also help monitor certain treatments or diagnose symptoms like swelling (edema) or rapid weight loss.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader liver or kidney evaluation. Bring any medications or questions to your appointment.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis using the bromocresol purple method, which measures protein concentration.

What Do Results Mean?

Results help determine if your protein levels are too high or too low, which can signal underlying health issues. Your provider will interpret the results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes low protein levels in blood?
Low protein levels can result from liver or kidney disease, malnutrition, chronic infections, or certain medications. If you’ve lost weight, have swelling, or feel unusually tired, discuss these symptoms with your provider.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine how often you need this test based on your health status. For example, people with liver or kidney disease may need it more frequently than others.
Does diet affect protein test results?
While diet can influence overall protein intake, this specific test measures serum protein concentration. However, fasting before the test helps ensure accurate results, so follow your provider’s instructions.
  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