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Total Protein in Serum

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood serum, which includes albumin and globulins. Proteins are essential for maintaining fluid balance, supporting immune function, and transporting nutrients.

Quick summary

["Your blood protein levels help your body stay healthy by supporting vital functions and protecting against infections."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50370-6
Short code
Queen Palm IgE/IgE total %
Synonyms
Queen Palm IgE/IgE total %
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 Does Total Protein Measure?

Total protein includes several types of proteins, such as albumin (which helps maintain fluid balance) and globulins (which support immune function). This test provides a general overview of your protein status, which can help identify conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems.

Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?

Your doctor may order a total protein test to check for signs of conditions affecting your liver, kidneys, or immune system. It can also help diagnose or monitor diseases like multiple myeloma, chronic kidney disease, or severe infections.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll typically have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor if you’re on certain medications or have bleeding disorders.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are usually reported in grams per deciliter (g/dL). Low levels may suggest malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems, while high levels could indicate dehydration, multiple myeloma, or inflammatory conditions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What Causes Low Total Protein Levels?
Low protein levels can result from conditions like liver disease (reducing albumin production), kidney disease (losing protein in urine), severe infections, or malnutrition. It may also indicate chronic inflammation or certain cancers.
What Causes High Total Protein Levels?
High protein levels can occur due to dehydration, multiple myeloma (a blood cancer affecting protein production), or severe inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Rarely, it may also be linked to certain genetic disorders.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health status. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have ongoing conditions like kidney or liver disease, but most healthy adults don’t require routine testing unless symptoms arise.
  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