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Protein Mass Concentration in Serum (or Plasma)

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein status and identify potential issues like malnutrition, kidney problems, or liver disease.

Quick summary

["Protein levels can signal underlying health concerns that may require further medical evaluation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
107377-4
Short code
Prot Bld-mCnc
Synonyms
Prot Bld-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
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, breakdown, or retention in the body. It can also help monitor chronic diseases like kidney disease, liver disease, or certain cancers.

What Does a Low or High Protein Level Mean?

Low protein levels may indicate malnutrition, severe kidney disease, or conditions that cause excessive protein loss (e.g., burns, kidney dialysis). High protein levels could suggest dehydration, certain infections, or conditions like multiple myeloma.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab where proteins are measured using specialized techniques, such as nephelometry or turbidimetry, to determine their total mass concentration.

What Are Common Conditions Monitored With This Test?

This test is often used to monitor protein levels in patients with chronic diseases like cirrhosis (liver disease), nephrotic syndrome (kidney disease), or those receiving dialysis. It may also help track protein status in cancer patients undergoing treatment.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Protein Level

Frequently asked questions

Why might my protein test result be different from what I expected?
Several factors can influence protein levels, including diet, hydration status, medications, recent illness, or underlying health conditions. If your result is unusual, discuss it with your provider to explore possible causes.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is usually needed, but avoid heavy meals or alcohol before the blood draw. If you’re on certain medications, let your provider know to ensure accurate results.
Can protein levels change over time, and how often should I get retested?
Yes, protein levels can fluctuate due to illness, diet, or other factors. Your provider will determine how often to retest based on your health status and the reason for the initial test.
  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