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Total Protein in Serum or Plasma (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes both albumin and globulin proteins essential for maintaining fluid balance, transporting nutrients, and supporting immune function.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall protein levels and potential issues like malnutrition or kidney problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58017-5
Short code
Olive Poln IgE/IgE total %
Synonyms
Olive Poln IgE/IgE total %
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 It’s Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate kidney function, detect liver disease, monitor nutritional status, or investigate symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or unexplained weight changes.

What to Expect

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to determine protein concentration. Results are typically ready within 1–2 days.

Possible Results and Interpretation

Higher-than-normal protein levels may suggest conditions like dehydration, multiple myeloma, or chronic inflammation. Lower-than-normal levels could indicate malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems.

Common Conditions Affecting Results

Conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, or severe infections can alter protein levels. Certain medications or dietary factors may also influence the test results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes total protein levels to be abnormal?
Abnormal results may stem from underlying health issues like chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, malnutrition, or conditions that cause excessive protein loss (e.g., nephrotic syndrome). Other factors, such as dehydration or certain medications, can also impact protein levels.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your medical condition. Routine tests may be ordered annually or more often if you have a chronic illness like kidney or liver disease. Always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations.
Can diet affect this test?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. High-protein diets or deficiencies in protein intake may lead to changes. Avoiding alcohol or certain medications (e.g., diuretics) before testing can help ensure accurate results.
  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