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Total Protein with Albumin Ratio (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test measures the ratio of total protein to albumin in your blood, which helps assess protein balance and potential liver or kidney function issues.

Quick summary

["A lower albumin-to-total protein ratio may signal protein loss or liver/kidney problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
45364-7
Short code
LPT 1.0 ug PW Bld-aCnc
Synonyms
LPT 1.0 ug PW Bld-aCnc
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 Is Done

Your doctor may order this test to evaluate protein metabolism, detect conditions like liver disease, kidney disease, or malnutrition, or monitor treatment responses for conditions affecting protein levels.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample drawn from a vein, typically in a clinic or lab. Avoid alcohol or strenuous activity 24 hours before if instructed.

What the Results Mean

A lower ratio may indicate conditions like cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome, or severe protein loss. A higher ratio could suggest dehydration or overestimation of albumin. Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps diagnose or monitor liver disease (e.g., hepatitis, cirrhosis), kidney disease (e.g., chronic kidney disease), malnutrition, or inflammatory conditions.

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Protein-Albumin Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does a low albumin-to-protein ratio mean?
It may suggest conditions like liver failure, kidney disease, or excessive protein loss (e.g., from wounds or diarrhea). Your doctor will review your symptoms and other test results to determine the cause.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health condition. If you have chronic liver/kidney disease, your doctor may recommend periodic checks. Ask your provider for personalized guidance.
Can diet affect this test result?
Dietary protein intake can influence albumin levels, but the ratio is less affected. Avoid extreme protein restriction or high-protein diets without medical advice. Follow your doctor’s instructions for test timing.
  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