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Total Protein in Plasma (Serum)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood plasma or serum, which includes important proteins like albumin and globulins that help maintain fluid balance, support immunity, and transport nutrients.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall protein levels and potential issues like dehydration, liver disease, or kidney problems."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
81630-6
Short code
MTX-PGs 1-5 + Total Pnl RBC
Synonyms
MTX-PGs 1-5 + Total Pnl RBC
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
44
Ref high
147
Critical range
2 N/A – 7 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84075
SNOMED
27550007
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 It’s Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein production, such as liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis), kidney disease, malnutrition, or certain immune disorders. It can also help evaluate dehydration or fluid balance in severe cases.

What to Expect

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate plasma or serum, and the protein content is measured using standard laboratory techniques.

Normal vs. Abnormal Results

While reference ranges vary by lab, higher-than-expected protein levels might suggest conditions like multiple myeloma or severe dehydration. Lower-than-expected levels could indicate liver disease, kidney problems, or malnutrition.

Common Conditions Linked to Results

Elevated protein levels may indicate overproduction of proteins (e.g., monoclonal gammopathy) or dehydration, while low levels may signal liver dysfunction, kidney failure, or protein-losing conditions like nephrotic syndrome.

Reference range

Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Follow-up with your provider to discuss findings.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No special preparation is needed, but avoid heavy meals or alcohol 24 hours before testing to ensure accurate results.
Does this test require fasting?
No fasting is required for this test, but your provider may recommend fasting for related tests (e.g., liver function panels).
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy