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Serum or plasma total protein concentration (mass concentration)

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 overall protein balance and potential nutritional or kidney issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
23423-7
Short code
S Enteritid IgG Egg Yolk Ql IA
Synonyms
S Enteritid IgG Egg Yolk Ql IA
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
CPT
82784
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 malnutrition, liver disease, kidney problems, or certain infections. It can also help evaluate fluid balance or diagnose conditions like edema (swelling) or protein-losing syndromes.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw blood. If you’re fasting, follow your provider’s instructions. Avoid heavy meals or certain medications that might affect results.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a standard range for your age and health. Low levels may suggest malnutrition, liver or kidney disease, or excessive fluid loss. High levels could indicate dehydration, multiple myeloma, or severe inflammation.

Common Conditions Linked to Results

Abnormal protein levels can signal underlying issues like chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, inflammatory diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), or severe infections. Your provider will discuss findings in the context of your medical history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

How This Test Helps Your Care

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes my total protein to be low?
Low total protein can result from poor nutrition, kidney or liver disease, excessive vomiting/diarrhea, or conditions that cause the body to lose protein (e.g., burns, severe infections). Your provider may recommend further tests or dietary adjustments.
What does a high total protein level usually mean?
High protein levels may indicate dehydration, multiple myeloma (a blood cancer), or conditions like severe inflammation or chronic kidney disease. Dehydration is often the most common cause, especially in older adults or those with certain medications.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. Routine adults may not need it unless they have risk factors (e.g., kidney disease, liver issues). Follow-up tests are often scheduled if you have chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease.
  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