Total Protein in Serum
This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood serum, which includes important proteins like albumin and globulins that help maintain fluid balance and support immune function.
["Your blood protein levels can signal health issues like dehydration, liver disease, or kidney problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36091-7
- Short code
- MR Hrt Ltd
- Synonyms
- MR Hrt Ltd
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- mr
- 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 This Test Matters
Blood proteins play key roles in your body’s health. High or low levels may indicate conditions like malnutrition, infections, or organ damage. Your doctor may order this test to check for these issues or monitor existing conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm, and a blood sample will be drawn. It usually takes a few minutes. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.
Common Reasons for Testing
Doctors often check total protein levels when evaluating symptoms like swelling, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or signs of infection. It may also be used to monitor chronic conditions like kidney disease or liver disorders.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a general range for your age and health. Very high or very low levels can raise concerns, but individual results depend on your overall health. Your doctor will discuss these with you.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated protein levels may suggest conditions like multiple myeloma, severe dehydration, or liver disease. Low levels could indicate malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems. Always review results with your healthcare provider, as they consider your full medical picture.
Short name
Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
What causes protein levels to be too high?
What causes protein levels to be too low?
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