Total Protein (Serum)
This test measures the total amount of protein found in your blood serum, which includes albumin and globulins. Proteins are essential for maintaining fluid balance, transporting nutrients, and supporting immune function.
["Your blood protein levels help doctors assess hydration, nutrition, and overall health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 90085-2
- Short code
- REPORTNAME
- Synonyms
- —
- 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
Why Is This Test Done?
Doctors may order a total protein test to check for conditions like dehydration, malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems. It can also help diagnose certain autoimmune diseases or infections.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.
What Are Common Results and Their Meanings?
Higher-than-normal protein levels might suggest conditions like multiple myeloma or dehydration, while lower levels could indicate liver disease, kidney problems, or malnutrition. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
How Is This Test Performed?
Blood is drawn from a vein in your arm and sent to a lab for analysis. The test typically takes a few minutes, and results are usually available within 24–48 hours.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
What does a high total protein level mean?
A low total protein level often signals malnutrition, liver disease (like cirrhosis), kidney disease, or conditions that affect protein synthesis, such as severe infections or inflammatory diseases.
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. Eating a balanced diet with adequate protein may help maintain normal levels, but your doctor will consider other factors when interpreting results.
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