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Serum or plasma concentration of total protein by turbidimetry

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

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps your body fight infections, repair tissues, and maintain fluid balance.

Quick summary

["Total protein levels can signal health issues like dehydration, kidney problems, or liver disease."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
18576-9
Short code
J Pnt ST Amp+80ms L-V3
Synonyms
J Pnt ST Amp+80ms L-V3
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 production, fluid balance, or organ function. It’s often included in routine blood work or when symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or unexplained weight changes appear.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but avoid eating or drinking anything (except water) for 8–12 hours before the test if instructed. Wear a comfortable shirt for easy access to your arm.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where protein levels are measured using a technique that detects how much protein is present in your blood plasma or serum.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a general range for healthy adults. Low levels may indicate conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems, while high levels could suggest dehydration, inflammation, or overproduction of proteins.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes low total protein levels?
Low total protein can result from conditions like severe malnutrition, kidney disease, liver failure, or chronic infections. It may also occur due to excessive protein loss (e.g., in kidney disease) or fluid retention (e.g., heart failure).
What causes high total protein levels?
High total protein can be caused by dehydration, certain infections, or conditions like multiple myeloma (a blood cancer). Rarely, it may also appear in people with overactive thyroid or certain autoimmune diseases.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health status, symptoms, or other medical conditions. Routine adults may not need it unless they have risk factors or symptoms.
  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