Serum or plasma concentration of protein (e.g., albumin, globulin, or total protein)
This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein levels and identify potential issues like malnutrition, kidney problems, or liver disease.
["Your blood protein levels can signal underlying health concerns that need attention."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 9879-8
- Short code
- J Pnt Depr L-AVR
- Synonyms
- J Pnt Depr L-AVR
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ekg
- 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?
Doctors may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein synthesis, breakdown, or retention in the body. It’s often used alongside other blood tests to diagnose or monitor diseases like kidney disease, liver disease, or 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 drawing blood from a vein. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay near a testing facility for a short time.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare provider will insert a needle into a vein in your arm to collect a blood sample. You may feel a brief pinch, but the procedure is quick and typically painless. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What Are Common Results and Their Meanings?
Results can vary based on the specific protein measured (e.g., albumin, globulin, or total protein). Low levels may indicate malnutrition, kidney or liver disease, or excessive protein loss. High levels could suggest dehydration, inflammation, or certain medical conditions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
What does a low total protein level mean?
High protein levels can result from dehydration, inflammation, or certain medical conditions. In some cases, it may reflect an overproduction of proteins. Your doctor will discuss your symptoms and other test results to understand the reason.
The frequency depends on your health status and symptoms. Your doctor may order this test periodically if you have conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, or malnutrition. Follow their guidance for scheduling follow-up tests.
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