Serum/plasma mass concentration of total protein (maximum value over a specified period)
This test measures the highest amount of total protein in your blood serum or plasma over a 24-hour period. Total protein includes important substances like albumin and globulins that help maintain fluid balance and support immune function.
["Helps assess long-term protein levels and potential fluid or nutritional imbalances."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 69013-1
- Short code
- LPT PHA max/CD3 NFr Bld FC
- Synonyms
- LPT PHA max/CD3 NFr Bld FC
- 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
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- 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 healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like swelling (edema), unexplained weight changes, or signs of malnutrition. It can also be used to monitor conditions affecting protein levels, such as kidney disease or liver problems.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood draw, and the sample is processed to determine the highest protein concentration over 24 hours. If urine is involved, you may need to collect a timed urine sample.
How the Test Results Are Interpreted
Results are compared to your baseline or clinical context rather than a fixed reference range. Abnormally high or low values may signal underlying health concerns, such as dehydration, kidney issues, or protein-losing conditions.
Possible Causes of Abnormal Results
High maximum protein levels could indicate dehydration, severe infection, or certain cancers. Low levels may suggest malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver dysfunction. Always discuss results with your provider.
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.
This test is primarily used to evaluate chronic protein status in conditions where short-term fluctuations are less relevant. It provides insight into systemic protein metabolism and can guide treatment for conditions like nephrotic syndrome or chronic kidney disease.
Short name
24-Hour Total Protein Max
Frequently asked questions
What does a 24-hour total protein max test measure?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
To check for conditions affecting protein levels, such as swelling, kidney or liver disease, or malnutrition. It may also help monitor treatment responses.
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