Serum or plasma measurement of substance concentration for **total serum protein** (electrochemical immunoassay or nephelometry method)
This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes albumin and globulins. Proteins are essential for maintaining fluid balance, supporting immune function, and transporting nutrients.
["Total protein helps assess overall protein levels and identify potential deficiencies or abnormalities in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 3019-7
- Short code
- LA TSH SerPl Ql
- Synonyms
- LA TSH SerPl Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.4
- Ref high
- 4
- Critical range
- 0.1 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84443
- SNOMED
- 301343003
- 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 like malnutrition, kidney disease, liver problems, or certain infections. It can also help monitor treatment responses or diagnose conditions affecting protein synthesis or retention.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours if your test includes a lipid panel or other specific components. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking to your appointment.
Common Conditions Monitored
High total protein levels might suggest dehydration, multiple myeloma, or chronic inflammation, while low levels could indicate malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver disorders. Always discuss results with your provider.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a baseline or your body’s typical range, but individual results vary. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your health history and symptoms.
Reference range
Adult: 0.4-4.0 mIU/LN/A
Take your thyroid medication after the blood draw if applicable. No fasting required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Total protein levels can indirectly reflect kidney function (if albumin is low), liver health (if globulins are abnormal), or overall nutritional status. Chronic conditions like diabetes or autoimmune diseases may also influence protein levels.
Short name
Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
What causes high total protein levels?
What causes low total protein levels?
Can diet affect total protein test results?
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