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Serum or plasma concentration of total protein (mass concentration)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes albumin and other proteins like globulins. Proteins help with blood clotting, immune function, and maintaining fluid balance in your body.

Quick summary

["Total protein levels can help diagnose conditions like dehydration, liver disease, or kidney problems."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50586-7
Short code
GTT 3h Pnl SerPl
Synonyms
GTT 3h Pnl SerPl
Category
glucose
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
80
Ref high
200
Critical range
20 N/A – 400 N/A
Fasting
true
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84436
SNOMED
302346007
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 levels, such as kidney disease (which may cause protein to leak into urine), liver disease (which can reduce protein production), or dehydration (which may lower protein levels). It’s also used to monitor certain treatments or conditions like malnutrition.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves a blood draw. Avoid smoking or strenuous activity right before the test. If you’re on certain medications, let your provider know.

How the Test Works

A small sample of your blood (serum or plasma) is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure the total protein content using a standardized method, often automated and precise.

What the Results Mean

Results are reported as a total protein value, but exact reference ranges vary by lab. High levels may suggest conditions like dehydration, severe infections, or certain cancers, while low levels could indicate liver disease, kidney problems, or malnutrition. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health.

Reference range

Adult: 80-200 ng/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

Take your thyroid medication after the blood draw if applicable. No fasting required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes high total protein levels?
High total protein levels can occur due to dehydration (losing too much fluid), severe infections or inflammations (like sepsis), multiple myeloma (a blood cancer), or certain types of kidney disease. Chronic liver disease may also contribute to elevated protein levels if albumin production is impaired.
What causes low total protein levels?
Low total protein levels are often linked to liver disease (reducing albumin production), kidney disease (where protein leaks into urine), malnutrition, or chronic infections. Severe burns or prolonged fasting can also deplete protein stores.
Can diet affect this test?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. High-protein diets may temporarily raise protein levels, while prolonged low-protein diets or malnutrition can lower them. Avoiding alcohol or excessive salt intake before the test may help ensure accurate results, as these can affect fluid balance and protein measurement.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy