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Serum or Plasma Total Protein (by Bromocresol Green Dye Binding)

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 your body’s protein balance and overall kidney function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
20507-0
Short code
RPR Ser Ql
Synonyms
RPR Ser Ql
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 affecting protein levels, such as kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or certain infections. It can also help monitor treatments for conditions like protein-losing disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast before the test, but this depends on your doctor’s instructions. Bring any medications you’re taking, as some can affect protein levels.

What Happens During the Test?

A small needle will be inserted into a vein in your arm or hand to draw blood. You may feel a brief pinch, but it’s usually over quickly. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are expressed in grams per deciliter (g/dL). Low protein levels may indicate conditions like malnutrition or kidney disease, while very high levels could suggest liver disease or dehydration.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes low total protein levels?
Low total protein levels can be caused by conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, severe infections, or certain autoimmune disorders. It may also occur if you’re losing protein through excessive vomiting, diarrhea, or wounds.
What causes high total protein levels?
High total protein levels can result from liver diseases (like cirrhosis), multiple myeloma (a blood cancer), severe dehydration, or certain infections. Rarely, it may also be linked to overproduction of proteins in the body.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health condition and symptoms. Some people may need it yearly, while others may require it more frequently if they have ongoing health issues like kidney disease or liver problems.
  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