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Serum or plasma mass 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, kidney function, and potential nutritional deficiencies.

Quick summary

["Total protein levels can signal kidney issues, liver problems, or nutritional imbalances."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
70099-7
Short code
MTX sp2 SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
MTX sp2 SerPl-sCnc
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 evaluate kidney function, detect liver disease, check for protein-losing conditions (like certain gastrointestinal disorders), or assess nutritional health, especially in cases of malnutrition or chronic illness.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, inform your provider beforehand.

What the Results Mean

Higher than expected levels may indicate dehydration, liver disease, or multiple myeloma. Lower levels could signal kidney disease, malnutrition, or protein-losing conditions like nephrotic syndrome.

Common Conditions This Test Helps Diagnose

This test can help diagnose or monitor conditions such as kidney disease (e.g., chronic kidney disease), liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis), malnutrition, or certain inflammatory or neoplastic disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Total protein levels are a simple yet critical marker. Low levels often point to protein loss (e.g., through urine or gastrointestinal tract) or inadequate protein intake. High levels may reflect dehydration or overproduction of proteins (e.g., in liver disease or multiple myeloma). Monitoring trends over time helps track disease progression or treatment response.

Short name

Total Protein Level

Frequently asked questions

What does a ‘normal’ total protein level mean for me?
There’s no single ‘normal’ range because it can vary based on age, health status, and lab methods. Your results will be compared to your specific baseline and clinical context. Your provider will explain what your numbers mean in relation to your health.
Can diet affect my total protein test results?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. High-protein diets or certain medical conditions (like kidney disease) may temporarily alter results. If you’re on a special diet, discuss it with your provider before testing.
Why might my total protein test be done repeatedly?
Repeated testing helps track changes over time, especially if you have conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, or malnutrition. It also ensures treatment adjustments are working as intended or if new issues arise.
  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