Serum/Plasma Substance Concentration (General) – Total Protein with Albumin/GLOBULIN Fractionation (Bromocresol Purple Method)
This test measures the total protein in your blood and breaks it down into albumin and globulin fractions. Protein levels help assess kidney function, nutritional status, and potential liver issues.
["Protein levels and their breakdown can signal health risks or deficiencies that need medical attention."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 21769-5
- Short code
- SCA genes CAG Rpt Bld/T Ql
- Synonyms
- SCA genes CAG Rpt Bld/T Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- molgen
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors order this test to evaluate overall protein status, diagnose conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems, or monitor chronic illnesses such as kidney failure or inflammatory diseases. It may also help assess fluid balance or identify protein-losing syndromes.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood draw, usually from a vein in your arm. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.
What the Results Mean
Total protein and its fractions (albumin and globulins) provide clues about your body’s protein reserves and organ function. Abnormal results may indicate conditions like dehydration, liver disease, or kidney problems.
Common Conditions Linked to Abnormal Results
Low total protein or albumin could signal malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems. High globulin levels may point to chronic inflammation, infections, or autoimmune disorders. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test helps identify conditions affecting protein metabolism, fluid balance, and organ health, guiding treatment decisions for conditions like cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome, or inflammatory diseases.
Short name
Total Protein with Fractionation
Frequently asked questions
What does a low total protein level mean?
Can diet affect protein test results?
Is this test painful?
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