Serum/plasma substance concentration for a specific protein (e.g., albumin, globulin, or other protein marker) measured by immunoassay
This test measures the amount of certain proteins in your blood, which can help doctors understand how well your organs are working or identify potential health issues.
["Protein levels in your blood can signal kidney, liver, or immune system function and help diagnose conditions like proteinuria or hypoalbuminemia."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 19197-3
- Short code
- PSA SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- PSA SerPl-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 4
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84153
- SNOMED
- 39392002
- 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 This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if they suspect problems with your kidneys, liver, immune system, or overall protein balance. It could also be part of routine check-ups or monitoring for conditions like heart disease, infections, or certain cancers.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves drawing blood from your vein. If you’re taking certain medications, let your doctor know.
How the Test Is Performed
A healthcare provider will collect a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to detect and measure specific proteins.
What the Results Mean
Results will show the concentration of proteins in your blood. Abnormally high or low levels may indicate underlying health concerns, but your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
Reference range
Normal: <4.0 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation required. For PSA, avoid sexual activity for 24-48 hours before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High protein levels might suggest dehydration, inflammation, or certain cancers, while low levels could signal kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or immune disorders. Your doctor will use these findings to guide treatment or further testing.
Short name
Protein Level (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What causes protein levels to be abnormal?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or exercise affect protein test results?
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