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Total Protein (Serum)

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

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

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
89748-8
Short code
REPORTINGTOLEADERSHIP
Synonyms
—
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
cdc-eoc
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 a total protein test to check for conditions affecting protein production, such as liver disease, kidney problems, or malnutrition. It can also help diagnose certain immune system disorders or monitor treatment responses.

What Does a Low or High Protein Level Mean?

Low protein levels might indicate problems like malnutrition, severe kidney disease, or liver failure. High protein levels could suggest dehydration, multiple myeloma (a blood cancer), or certain kidney issues. However, results alone don’t diagnose a condition—your provider will consider your full medical picture.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab where it’s separated into serum (the liquid part after clotting) to measure protein content using standard laboratory techniques.

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?

Changes in protein levels can stem from dietary factors, chronic diseases, infections, or medications. For example, kidney disease may cause protein to leak into urine, while liver disease affects protein synthesis.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A low total protein level may signal malnutrition, chronic kidney disease, or liver cirrhosis. A high level could indicate dehydration, severe infections, or conditions like multiple myeloma. Always discuss results with your provider, as they’ll review your symptoms and other test results to guide next steps.

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What does a total protein test measure exactly?
It measures the combined amount of all proteins in your blood serum, including albumin and globulins. This test doesn’t specify which proteins are present or their individual levels.
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your provider will contact you once they’re ready to discuss the results.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
You can eat and drink normally before the test, as it doesn’t require fasting. However, always follow any specific instructions your provider gives you.
  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