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Serum/plasma rate of protein degradation (e.g., breakdown of albumin or globulins)

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

This test measures how quickly certain proteins in your blood break down over time.

Quick summary

["Understanding protein breakdown helps assess kidney function and protein metabolism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
45363-9
Short code
LPT 1.0 ug PHA Bld-nRate
Synonyms
LPT 1.0 ug PHA Bld-nRate
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if they suspect conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, or metabolic disorders that affect protein balance. It can also help monitor long-term protein loss or evaluate responses to treatments.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before your blood draw. Wear a comfortable shirt for easy access to your arm.

How the Test Works

A small sample of your blood is collected and analyzed to measure the rate at which specific proteins degrade. This involves monitoring changes in protein levels over a defined period.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test may be used to diagnose or monitor conditions such as chronic kidney disease, severe protein-losing syndromes, or metabolic disorders like hypercatabolism (rapid breakdown of body proteins).

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: whole-blood

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Frequently asked questions

How does protein degradation rate differ from standard protein tests like albumin?
Unlike standard protein tests (e.g., albumin or globulin levels), this test specifically measures the *rate* of protein breakdown, which can highlight early or subtle changes in protein metabolism that might not be detected by single-point measurements.
What does an elevated or low protein degradation rate mean?
An elevated rate may indicate excessive protein breakdown, potentially due to conditions like severe infection, trauma, or certain cancers. A low rate could suggest impaired protein synthesis or metabolic disorders.
Can this test be done at home?
No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. Results are usually reported within a few days.
  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