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Total Serum Protein with Albumin-to-Globulin Ratio (Serum)

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

This test measures your total protein in blood and compares albumin and globulin levels to help assess protein balance and potential conditions like malnutrition or liver/kidney issues.

Quick summary

["Helps check protein health and possible hidden health problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
25951-5
Short code
LH sp9 p chal SerPl IRP1-aCnc
Synonyms
LH sp9 p chal SerPl IRP1-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
1.5
Ref high
9
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
st-irp
CPT
83002
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

What Does Total Protein Measure?

Total protein includes albumin and globulin, both vital for blood clotting, immunity, and fluid balance. Low levels may signal malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems, while high levels could indicate dehydration or chronic disease.

Why Is the Albumin-to-Globulin Ratio Important?

This ratio compares albumin (a protein made by your liver) to globulins (proteins linked to immunity and clotting). An imbalance may point to liver disease, infections, or inflammatory conditions.

How Is This Test Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from your arm. The lab separates serum (liquid part after clotting) and measures protein levels using standard immunoassay methods.

Common Conditions Monitored

Low total protein or abnormal AG ratios may signal malnutrition, chronic liver disease, kidney failure, or inflammatory disorders like rheumatoid arthritis.

Reference range

Follicular: 1.5-9.0 mIU/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: This test is often used as a screening tool to identify protein-related imbalances that may require further investigation into underlying causes like chronic illness, organ dysfunction, or dietary deficiencies.

Short name

Total Protein & AG Ratio

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor order this test?
Your doctor may recommend it to check for protein loss, liver/kidney function, or signs of chronic disease when other symptoms (like swelling, fatigue, or weight changes) suggest an issue.
What are typical reference ranges?
Reference ranges vary by lab, but total protein is often between 6.4–8.3 g/dL, with albumin around 3.5–5.0 g/dL and globulins roughly 1.5–3.5 g/dL. Your actual values will be provided by your lab report.
How soon will I get results?
Results typically arrive within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab. Your doctor will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
  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