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Serum or plasma concentration of total protein

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

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein status and kidney function.

Quick summary

["Total protein levels can signal kidney issues or protein loss from the body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
71498-0
Short code
MANAGER
Synonyms
—
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
esrd
CPT
86038
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions like kidney disease, malnutrition, or liver problems, where protein levels might be abnormal. It can also help monitor protein loss due to conditions like nephrotic syndrome or certain cancers.

What Does the Result Mean?

Higher-than-normal results may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or dehydration. Lower-than-normal results could suggest malnutrition, kidney disease, or severe burns.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then separated into serum (if clotted) or plasma (if anticoagulated) for testing.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to monitor kidney function, diagnose protein-losing conditions, or evaluate nutritional status in patients with chronic illnesses.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes high total protein levels?
High total protein levels can result from conditions like multiple myeloma (cancer of plasma cells), severe dehydration, or certain liver diseases. Chronic inflammation or exposure to certain medications may also contribute.
What causes low total protein levels?
Low total protein levels are often due to malnutrition, kidney disease, severe burns, or conditions causing excessive protein loss (e.g., nephrotic syndrome). Chronic liver disease or malabsorption syndromes can also lead to lower protein levels.
Can diet affect total protein test results?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. Eating a balanced diet with adequate protein intake helps maintain normal levels. Avoiding excessive alcohol or certain medications (e.g., diuretics) may also help stabilize results.
  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