Serum/plasma concentration of total protein by nephelometry
This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein levels and kidney function.
["Total protein helps evaluate hydration, kidney health, and protein synthesis in your body."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 58729-5
- Short code
- LPT 2.5 ug PHA Act/Nor Bld
- Synonyms
- LPT 2.5 ug PHA Act/Nor Bld
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions like dehydration, kidney disease, liver problems, or malnutrition. It can also help monitor treatments for these conditions.
What Does a Low or High Protein Level Mean?
Low protein levels might indicate kidney issues, severe dehydration, or malnutrition. High protein levels could suggest dehydration, liver disease, or certain medical conditions like multiple myeloma.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed using a nephelometry method to measure protein concentration.
What Are Common Reference Ranges?
While reference ranges can vary by lab, typical values for total protein in serum/plasma are usually between 6.0 to 8.0 grams per deciliter (g/dL).
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
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.
Total protein levels are important for diagnosing and managing several health conditions. Low protein levels can signal kidney problems, poor nutrient absorption, or severe illness. High protein levels may indicate dehydration, liver disease, or conditions that cause excessive protein production in the body.
Short name
Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
What does a normal total protein level mean?
Can diet affect my total protein test results?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy