Serum or plasma concentration of total protein by nephelometry
This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes albumin and other proteins like globulins. Proteins help transport nutrients, fight infections, and maintain fluid balance in your body.
["Your blood protein levels can signal health issues or help guide treatment plans."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 18568-6
- Short code
- J Pnt ST Amp+80ms L-AVF
- Synonyms
- J Pnt ST Amp+80ms L-AVF
- 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 Matters
Total protein is important for many bodily functions, including supporting immune responses, maintaining blood pressure, and transporting nutrients. Low or high levels may indicate conditions like dehydration, liver disease, kidney problems, or malnutrition.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before your blood draw if your doctor specifies it. Wear a loose shirt for easy access to your arm.
How the Test Works
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is then analyzed using a nephelometry method to measure the total protein content in your serum or plasma.
Possible Results and Next Steps
Results may be compared to your baseline or reference ranges provided by your lab. If your levels are outside expected ranges, your doctor may recommend further testing (e.g., albumin, globulin breakdown) or adjustments to your treatment.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low total protein levels may signal conditions like severe dehydration, liver disease (reducing albumin production), or kidney problems (wasting proteins). High levels could suggest dehydration, multiple myeloma (excess plasma cells), or severe burns. Monitoring protein levels helps diagnose and manage these conditions early.
Short name
Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
What causes low total protein levels?
What causes high total protein levels?
How often should I get this test?
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