Skip to content

Serum or plasma mass concentration of total protein (protein mass per volume)

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

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein status and kidney function.

Quick summary

["Total protein levels reflect hydration, kidney health, and protein balance in your body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
99466-5
Short code
Oat Poln IgG-mCnc
Synonyms
Oat Poln IgG-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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 like dehydration, kidney disease, liver problems, or malnutrition. It can also help evaluate protein loss in urine (proteinuria) or monitor treatment responses.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but avoid heavy meals 2–3 hours before testing. If you’re on dialysis, follow your provider’s instructions for timing. Blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm.

What the Results Mean

Lower than expected levels may indicate malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems. Higher levels could suggest dehydration or conditions like multiple myeloma. Your results will be compared to standard ranges for your age and health status.

Common Conditions Affecting Results

Conditions like kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, or severe infections can alter protein levels. Hormonal imbalances, pregnancy, or certain medications may also influence results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes my protein levels to be abnormal?
Abnormal results often point to underlying issues like dehydration, kidney or liver disease, or protein loss (e.g., in urine). Your provider will discuss symptoms and other tests to identify the cause.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health needs. Routine checks may occur annually for general health, while chronic conditions like kidney disease may require more frequent testing.
Can diet affect my protein test results?
Yes—high-protein diets or severe malnutrition can shift results. Avoid extreme dietary changes before testing, and follow your provider’s guidance for timing.
  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