Total Protein in Serum
This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood serum, which includes albumin and globulins. Proteins are essential for many bodily functions, including maintaining fluid balance and supporting immunity.
["Your blood protein levels help assess overall health and detect potential issues like malnutrition or kidney problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 9945-7
- Short code
- Q wave dur L-V3
- Synonyms
- Q wave dur L-V3
- 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?
Doctors may order a total protein test to check for conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, liver problems, or certain immune disorders. It can also help monitor treatment progress for conditions affecting protein production or breakdown.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader liver or kidney evaluation. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.
How the Test Is Performed
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab to measure total protein content using standard laboratory techniques.
Possible Results and Interpretation
Results are reported as a total protein concentration (in grams per deciliter, or g/dL). While reference ranges vary by lab, lower levels may suggest malnutrition or protein-losing conditions, while higher levels could indicate dehydration, inflammation, or certain diseases.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein levels can signal underlying health issues. Low protein may indicate poor nutrient absorption, chronic kidney disease, or severe infections. High protein levels could reflect dehydration, liver disease, or inflammatory conditions. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
Short name
Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
What causes low total protein levels?
What are common symptoms if protein levels are too low?
How often should I get this test?
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