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Total Protein in Serum/Plasma (Bromocresol Green Method)

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

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

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall protein balance and kidney function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
98214-0
Short code
Reag Ab + T pall IgG + IgM + tot Pnl CSF
Synonyms
Reag Ab + T pall IgG + IgM + tot Pnl CSF
Category
chemistry
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
1-2 mL
Stability
Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
Hemolysis max
200
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein levels, such as kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or certain infections. It can also help diagnose or monitor conditions like nephrotic syndrome or chronic kidney disease.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Avoid excessive alcohol or certain medications that might affect protein levels.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it typically takes only a few minutes. The test involves sending your blood sample to a lab for analysis using the bromocresol green method to measure protein concentration.

What Do the Results Mean?

Results are compared to a general reference range, but exact values can vary by lab. Low protein levels may indicate conditions like kidney disease or malnutrition, while very high levels could suggest liver disease or dehydration. Your provider will discuss results in the context of your health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Total Protein Levels

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes low total protein levels?
Low total protein can result from kidney disease (where proteins are lost in urine), liver disease (where protein production is impaired), malnutrition, severe infections, or conditions like nephrotic syndrome. It may also be linked to chronic inflammation or certain cancers.
What causes high total protein levels?
High protein levels can occur in dehydration (where fluid loss concentrates proteins), severe infections, multiple myeloma (a blood cancer), or rare genetic disorders. Chronic kidney disease or liver disease can also sometimes lead to elevated protein levels due to altered metabolism.
How often should this test be repeated?
Your provider will determine how often to repeat this test based on your symptoms, medical history, and test results. If you have a chronic condition like kidney disease or liver disease, follow-up may be scheduled regularly to monitor protein levels and overall health.
  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