Total Protein with Albumin/GLOBulin Separation (Serum)
This test measures your blood’s total protein levels and breaks down the protein components—albumin and globulins—into separate parts. Proteins are vital for transporting nutrients, maintaining fluid balance, and supporting immune function.
["Understanding your protein balance helps diagnose conditions like liver disease, kidney problems, or infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 55711-6
- Short code
- PZA Islt Slgr Mcbct AB200.0
- Synonyms
- PZA Islt Slgr Mcbct AB200.0
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- method-for-slow-growing-mycobacteria-antibiotic-concentration-at-ug-ml
- 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 Matters
Your body produces proteins in different forms, each serving unique roles. Albumin, the most abundant protein, helps keep fluids in your blood vessels and carries important substances like hormones and vitamins. Globulins include antibodies (for immunity), clotting factors, and other proteins that help fight infections and support immune responses. Together, these proteins contribute to overall health and disease prevention.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is drawn and sent to a lab. The serum is analyzed using a specialized method to separate and measure albumin and globulin levels. This helps identify imbalances that may signal underlying health issues.
Common Conditions Affecting Protein Levels
Low total protein or abnormal albumin/globulin ratios can signal conditions such as malnutrition, liver disease (reduced albumin), chronic infections (increased globulins), or kidney disease (protein loss in urine). High globulin levels may indicate autoimmune disorders or chronic inflammation.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but inform your healthcare provider about any medications, recent illnesses, or conditions that might affect protein levels (e.g., kidney disease, liver issues, or infections). Avoid heavy meals 2 hours before the draw.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Total Protein Profile
Frequently asked questions
Will my results affect my diet or treatment?
Can I fast before this test?
What if I have a history of bleeding or clotting issues?
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