Skip to content

Serum or plasma concentration of total protein (mass concentration)

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes albumin and other proteins like globulins.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall protein balance and potential kidney or liver issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
9974-7
Short code
QRS T-Amp L-AVL
Synonyms
QRS T-Amp L-AVL
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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein production, such as liver disease, kidney problems, or malnutrition. It can also help monitor protein loss due to conditions like kidney disease or certain cancers.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw blood. If you’re fasting, follow your provider’s instructions.

What to Expect During the Test

The blood sample is collected in a tube and sent to the lab for analysis. Results are typically available within a few days.

Possible Results and Next Steps

If your results are outside the expected range, your provider will discuss potential causes, such as dehydration, infections, or underlying health conditions, and recommend next steps.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What does a low total protein level mean?
Low levels may indicate conditions like liver disease, kidney failure, or severe malnutrition, where the body isn’t producing enough protein or losing it through urine.
What does a high total protein level mean?
High levels can sometimes signal dehydration, multiple myeloma (a blood cancer), or conditions that cause the immune system to produce extra proteins.
Could my diet affect this test?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. Eating a balanced diet rich in protein may help maintain normal levels, but your provider will consider other factors when interpreting results.
  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