Serum or plasma concentration of total protein

Why Is This Test Done? Your healthcare provider may order this test to check how well your body is working, to look for signs of illness, or to monitor a condition you already have.

Doctors may order a total protein test to check for conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or certain infections. It can also help monitor protein loss due to conditions like kidney failure or excessive sweating.

What Does the Result Mean? Your results show whether your values fall within the expected range. Results that are higher or lower than normal may point to a health issue that needs further evaluation by your provider.

Results are typically reported as a range, but they can vary based on factors like age, sex, and overall health. Low protein levels may indicate poor nutrition or organ dysfunction, while very high levels could suggest conditions like multiple myeloma or severe dehydration.

Common Conditions Affecting Results: Certain conditions, such as infections, dehydration, liver or kidney problems, and some long-term illnesses, can affect your results, as can medicines, supplements, and what you ate recently.

Low protein levels might be linked to malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver disorders. High levels could signal dehydration, inflammation, or certain blood disorders.

Sample Collection and Preparation: A trained staff member will collect your sample, usually a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm. Follow any special instructions from your provider, such as fasting, before your appointment.

This test uses blood drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is separated into serum (liquid part after clotting) or plasma (liquid part before clotting) for testing.