Serum Lithium-Free Protein Concentration (or Protein Content)
This test measures the amount of protein in your blood that is not bound to lithium, a medication used to manage certain mental health conditions. It helps assess how your body processes lithium.
["Understanding your protein levels without lithium can aid in monitoring medication effects and kidney function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 80970-7
- Short code
- Lithium free SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Lithium free SerPl-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.6
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 1.6 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 This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking lithium to check how well your body is handling it. It can also help evaluate kidney function indirectly, as lithium is filtered by the kidneys.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. The test is quick and typically done in a lab setting.
What the Results Mean
Results show the concentration of protein that isn’t bound to lithium. High or low levels may indicate how your body processes lithium or if there are kidney-related issues.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
Changes in protein levels without lithium could be linked to kidney disease, dehydration, or certain medications. Your provider will discuss these with you based on your full medical picture.
Reference range
Therapeutic: 0.6-1.2 mmol/LN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is primarily used as a supportive measure when lithium levels are being monitored. It doesn’t replace direct lithium measurements but can help assess broader health factors affecting lithium metabolism.
Short name
Lithium-Free Protein Level
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor want to check this test?
Is there any risk or discomfort with this test?
How often should I get this test?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy