Skip to content

Serum/plasma concentration of total protein

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

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein status and potential nutritional or kidney-related issues.

Quick summary

["Total protein levels can signal kidney function or nutritional deficiencies."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
20508-8
Short code
RPR SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
RPR SerPl-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
rpr
CPT
86592
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 this test to check for conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, liver problems, or fluid imbalances. It’s also used to monitor treatment progress in certain conditions.

What Does a Result Mean?

Higher-than-expected levels might indicate dehydration, liver disease, or multiple myeloma. Lower-than-expected levels could signal malnutrition, kidney disease, or excessive protein loss.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often part of routine check-ups, kidney function evaluations, or when symptoms like swelling, weight changes, or fatigue appear.

Sample Collection & Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is sent to a lab where it’s separated into serum or plasma for testing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Total protein levels reflect the balance of albumin and globulin proteins. Low levels may indicate protein loss (e.g., kidney disease), poor absorption (e.g., celiac disease), or severe illness. High levels can suggest dehydration, chronic inflammation, or overactive thyroid.

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes low total protein?
Low total protein is often due to conditions like kidney disease, malnutrition, or liver problems. It can also occur if you lose protein through wounds, diarrhea, or certain medications.
What causes high total protein?
High total protein can result from dehydration, multiple myeloma (a blood cancer), or chronic inflammation. Rarely, it may indicate overproduction of certain proteins.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine frequency based on your health needs—typically as part of routine exams, kidney monitoring, or if symptoms suggest protein-related issues.
  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