Skip to content

Total Protein with Albumin Ratio (Serum)

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

This test measures the proportion of albumin (a protein) to total protein in your blood, which can help assess protein balance and kidney function.

Quick summary

["Understanding your protein balance may aid in diagnosing or monitoring conditions like kidney disease or malnutrition."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
18575-1
Short code
J Pnt ST Amp+80ms L-V2
Synonyms
J Pnt ST Amp+80ms L-V2
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 evaluate protein levels in your blood. It can help identify issues like kidney disease, liver problems, or malnutrition, where protein metabolism may be affected.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.

What the Results Mean

A lower albumin-to-protein ratio might suggest kidney problems, liver disease, or protein loss in urine. A higher ratio could indicate dehydration or other conditions affecting protein levels. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to monitor kidney function, especially in conditions like chronic kidney disease or nephrotic syndrome, where protein loss in urine may occur.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Albumin is a key protein that helps maintain fluid balance and supports immune function. When albumin levels drop, it can signal kidney issues, liver disease, or malnutrition. The albumin-to-protein ratio helps assess whether protein is being lost in urine (a sign of kidney damage) or if overall protein levels are too low due to other factors.

Short name

Albumin-to-Protein Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What causes a low albumin-to-protein ratio?
A low ratio may be due to kidney disease (where protein leaks into urine), liver problems (reducing protein production), malnutrition, or severe infections.
What causes a high albumin-to-protein ratio?
A high ratio could indicate dehydration, inflammation, or conditions that temporarily raise total protein levels without affecting albumin specifically.
Is fasting required for this test?
No fasting is needed, but let your provider know if you’re on blood thinners or have any allergies to blood collection supplies.
  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