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Total Protein in Serum

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood serum, which includes albumin and other proteins like globulins.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall protein balance and potential liver or kidney issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
10936-3
Short code
Mare Milk IgE Qn
Synonyms
Mare Milk IgE Qn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 affecting protein production, such as liver disease, kidney problems, or malnutrition. It can also help monitor certain treatments or conditions like chronic kidney disease or inflammatory disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein in your arm, and a small amount of blood will be drawn. This usually takes a few minutes and may cause a slight pinch or discomfort.

What the Results Mean

Higher than expected levels might suggest conditions like dehydration, multiple myeloma, or severe liver disease. Lower levels could indicate malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems. Your results will be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to monitor conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver disease, and certain types of cancer. It can also help diagnose malnutrition or dehydration.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What does a high total protein level mean?
A high total protein level might be due to conditions like severe dehydration, certain types of cancer (such as multiple myeloma), or liver disease. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and may recommend further tests to determine the cause.
What does a low total protein level mean?
A low total protein level could be caused by malnutrition, kidney disease, liver problems, or certain inflammatory conditions. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about what these results mean for you personally.
Can diet affect my total protein test results?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. Eating a balanced diet with adequate protein intake is important, but your doctor may recommend specific dietary adjustments or further testing if needed.
  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