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Serum or Plasma Total Protein by Bromocresol Green (BCG) Method

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein levels and identify potential deficiencies or excesses.

Quick summary

["Total protein levels can signal kidney function, nutritional status, or other health concerns."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
7404-7
Short code
Shagbark Hickory IgE Qn
Synonyms
Shagbark Hickory IgE Qn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
22
Ref high
198
Critical range
— – 10000 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82553
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 kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or dehydration. It can also help monitor treatment effectiveness for certain illnesses.

What Does the Test Involve?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where protein levels are measured using a specialized dye (bromocresol green) that binds to proteins, allowing for accurate quantification.

What Are Common Results Used For?

Results help determine if your body is producing enough protein or if there’s an imbalance due to illness. Low levels may indicate malnutrition or kidney issues, while high levels could suggest liver disease or dehydration.

What Might Affect My Results?

Factors like diet (especially protein intake), kidney or liver disease, infections, pregnancy, or certain medications can influence protein levels. Recent blood loss or dehydration may also impact results.

Reference range

Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

How often should I expect to retest if my protein levels are abnormal?
Your doctor will determine retesting frequency based on your symptoms, test results, and overall health. Follow-up may occur every few weeks to months, depending on the underlying cause.
What are the most common symptoms linked to abnormal protein levels?
Symptoms may include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swelling (edema), frequent infections, or changes in skin appearance. However, some people may not have noticeable symptoms until protein levels are severely altered.
Can diet changes alone fix abnormal protein levels?
Dietary adjustments (such as increasing protein intake for deficiencies) can help, but severe imbalances often require medical treatment. Your doctor may recommend specific dietary plans or supplements based on your test results.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy