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Total Protein in Serum or Plasma

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes important substances like albumin and globulins that help maintain fluid balance, support immunity, and transport nutrients.

Quick summary

["Your blood protein levels can indicate overall health, hydration status, or potential conditions like liver disease or kidney problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
61280-4
Short code
Lettuce IgE/IgE total %
Synonyms
Lettuce IgE/IgE total %
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 It’s Done

Doctors may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein production, such as liver disease, kidney disease, malnutrition, or certain immune disorders. It can also help monitor treatment responses or diagnose fluid imbalances.

What to Expect

A small blood sample is taken from your arm, usually at a lab or clinic. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s quick. No special preparation is needed unless instructed otherwise.

Normal vs. Abnormal Results

While reference ranges vary by lab, high levels might suggest dehydration or conditions like multiple myeloma, while low levels could indicate liver/kidney issues, malnutrition, or severe burns.

Common Conditions Linked to Results

Elevated protein levels may signal dehydration, chronic inflammation, or certain cancers. Low levels often point to liver disease, kidney failure, or protein-losing conditions like celiac disease.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

Could my protein test results be affected by what I eat?
Dietary changes may influence protein levels temporarily, but your doctor will consider overall health factors. Avoid extreme diets or supplements without approval.
Why do I need this test if I don’t have symptoms?
Even without symptoms, protein tests help detect early signs of conditions like kidney disease or liver dysfunction that might not show up in other tests.
What if my protein level is on the lower end?
Your doctor may recommend further tests (like albumin or liver/kidney function tests) to pinpoint the cause, such as chronic illness or poor nutrient absorption.
  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