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Total Protein with Albumin Ratio (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test measures the ratio of total protein to albumin in your blood, which can help assess protein balance and kidney function.

Quick summary

["A useful tool to check protein levels and kidney health in your blood."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
9973-9
Short code
QRS T-Amp L-AVF
Synonyms
QRS T-Amp L-AVF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ekg
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

What Is This Test Measuring?

Total protein includes all proteins in your blood, while albumin is the most abundant protein. The ratio helps identify conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems by showing how well your body produces and maintains albumin.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like swelling, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or if they suspect conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver disease, or malnutrition.

How Is This Test Done?

A small blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure total protein and albumin levels separately.

What Do the Results Mean?

A lower albumin-to-total protein ratio may indicate problems with protein synthesis (e.g., liver or kidney disease) or increased protein loss (e.g., kidney disease). Higher ratios may suggest dehydration or other conditions affecting protein distribution.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Protein-Albumin Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
Abnormal results may be due to kidney disease, liver disease, malnutrition, dehydration, or certain medications. Always discuss your results with your healthcare provider for personalized interpretation.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your medical history, symptoms, and overall health. Regular monitoring may be recommended for people with chronic conditions like kidney or liver disease.
Can I Prepare for This Test?
No special preparation is usually needed, but avoid heavy meals before the blood draw. If you have questions about timing or restrictions, ask your healthcare provider.
  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