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Serum or plasma concentration of total protein (protein, total)

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

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood serum or plasma. Proteins are essential for many bodily functions, including transporting nutrients, maintaining fluid balance, and supporting immune responses.

Quick summary

["Your total protein levels help doctors assess overall health, detect nutritional deficiencies, or identify conditions like kidney disease or liver problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73011-9
Short code
HTCZ (neut) IgM SerPl Ql FC
Synonyms
HTCZ (neut) IgM SerPl Ql FC
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
flow-cytometry
CPT
82784
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 It’s Done

Doctors may order a total protein test to check for signs of health issues, such as malnutrition, kidney disease, liver problems, or certain immune disorders. It can also help monitor conditions like multiple myeloma or chronic infections.

What to Expect

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s quick and painless. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis.

Sample Preparation

The test uses either serum (blood after clotting) or plasma (blood after anticoagulant treatment). No special preparation is needed, but fasting may not be required unless instructed by your provider.

Common Conditions Monitored

Low total protein levels might suggest malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems, while high levels could indicate dehydration, inflammation, or certain cancers.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Total protein levels can indirectly reflect the balance of albumin and globulin proteins. Low albumin (a major protein) often points to liver or kidney issues, while elevated globulins may signal chronic infections or autoimmune diseases.

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes my total protein test results to be different from what I expected?
Several factors can affect results, including recent illness, dehydration, diet, or certain medications. If you notice a significant change, discuss it with your doctor to explore possible causes.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is usually needed, but always follow your doctor’s instructions. Avoid heavy meals or certain medications that might interfere with results if directed.
Can high or low protein levels be dangerous?
Extremely high or low protein levels can signal serious health issues, like kidney failure (low) or severe dehydration/inflammation (high). Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
  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