Serum or plasma concentration of total protein (qualitative or semi-quantitative screening)
This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein status and potential kidney function issues.
["A protein screening helps detect conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 18555-3
- Short code
- J Pnt ST Amp+20ms L-V6
- Synonyms
- J Pnt ST Amp+20ms L-V6
- 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 This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions that affect protein levels, such as kidney disease, liver disease, malnutrition, or certain infections. It can also be part of routine health checks or monitoring for chronic conditions.
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 involves a blood draw, but protein screening alone typically doesn’t require fasting. Bring any medications or questions to your appointment.
How the Test Works
A small sample of blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then analyzed to measure total protein levels. Some labs may use a quick screening method (like a dipstick) rather than detailed lab testing.
What the Results Mean
Results may be reported qualitatively (qualitative screening) or semi-quantitatively, meaning they indicate whether protein levels are within normal ranges or outside of them. Exact values may not always be provided, but abnormal results will prompt further testing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Protein screening (serum/plasma)
Frequently asked questions
Low protein levels (hypoproteinemia) can signal conditions like kidney disease, liver failure, severe infections, or malnutrition. High protein levels may indicate dehydration, multiple myeloma, or other blood disorders. Follow-up tests may include more detailed protein breakdowns (e.g., albumin and globulin levels).
A normal result suggests your protein levels are likely within the expected range for your health. However, if you have symptoms like fatigue, swelling, or unexplained weight loss, further evaluation may still be needed to rule out underlying causes.
Dietary protein intake can influence protein levels, but since this is a screening test, minor fluctuations are less likely to change the overall screening outcome. If your provider suspects dietary impact, they may recommend specific dietary adjustments or retesting.
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