Serum or plasma concentration of total protein (including albumin and globulins)
This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes both albumin and other proteins like globulins. Proteins help maintain fluid balance, support immune function, and transport nutrients.
["Total protein levels can indicate overall health and help diagnose conditions like dehydration, liver disease, or kidney problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 6507-8
- Short code
- N men sg W135 Ag CSF Ql LA
- Synonyms
- N men sg W135 Ag CSF Ql LA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- la
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- 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 (e.g., cirrhosis), kidney disease, malnutrition, or certain infections. It can also help monitor fluid balance or identify protein-losing conditions like inflammatory diseases.
What Does a Result Mean?
Results are not provided with specific reference ranges. Instead, they are used relative to your overall health, symptoms, and medical history. Low protein levels may suggest malnutrition, liver/kidney issues, or excessive protein loss. High levels could indicate dehydration or conditions like multiple myeloma.
What Happens During the Test?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab, where protein concentration is measured using a standardized method (often nephelometry or turbidimetry). No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised in some cases.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is frequently used to screen for or monitor conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver disease (e.g., hepatitis), severe infections, or inflammatory disorders. It may also be part of routine check-ups for patients with malnutrition or those receiving certain treatments.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein levels can signal underlying health issues. Low protein levels may reflect poor nutrient absorption, organ dysfunction, or excessive protein loss through urine or stool. High levels could indicate dehydration, certain cancers (e.g., multiple myeloma), or conditions that increase protein synthesis. Always discuss results with your provider for personalized interpretation.
Short name
Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
How often should I expect this test?
What can I do to prepare for this test?
Can I eat or drink anything before the blood draw?
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