Serum/plasma mass concentration of total protein (protein mass per volume)
This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein levels and identify potential issues like malnutrition or kidney problems.
["Total protein levels can signal underlying health concerns that may require further medical evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 18572-8
- Short code
- J Pnt ST Amp+80ms L-II
- Synonyms
- J Pnt ST Amp+80ms L-II
- 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?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein balance, such as kidney disease, liver problems, or malnutrition. It can also help monitor treatments for conditions like protein-losing disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Wear a comfortable shirt for easy access to your arm.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to draw blood. You may feel a slight pinch, but the procedure is quick and usually painless. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis.
What Are Possible Results?
Results are typically reported in grams per deciliter (g/dL). Low protein levels may indicate conditions like malnutrition or kidney disease, while very high levels could suggest liver disease or dehydration. Your results will be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Total protein levels are important for diagnosing and managing various health conditions. Low protein levels can signal malnutrition, chronic kidney disease, or liver disorders. High protein levels may point to dehydration, liver disease, or certain inflammatory conditions. Monitoring protein levels helps guide treatment plans and ensures proper nutrition and organ function.
Short name
Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
What does a low total protein level mean?
How long does it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink before 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