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Serum/plasma mass 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 levels and kidney function.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps check for conditions affecting protein balance or kidney health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111967-6
Short code
Site Mjr papl Endscpy
Synonyms
Site Mjr papl Endscpy
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
endoscopy
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 doctor may order this test to evaluate kidney function, detect protein-losing conditions (such as nephrotic syndrome), or assess nutritional status. It can also help diagnose conditions like liver disease or certain infections.

What Does the Result Mean?

Higher-than-expected results may indicate conditions like liver disease, dehydration, or multiple myeloma. Lower-than-expected results could suggest malnutrition, kidney disease, or severe burns.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used alongside other blood tests to monitor kidney health, track protein-losing disorders, or evaluate long-term health in patients with chronic illnesses.

How Is the Sample Collected?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then separated into serum or plasma for testing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Total protein levels can reflect underlying health issues. Elevated levels may signal conditions like chronic inflammation or liver disease, while low levels can indicate malnutrition, kidney problems, or excessive fluid loss.

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal total protein levels?
Abnormal results may be due to conditions affecting protein production (e.g., liver disease), protein loss (e.g., kidney disease), or fluid shifts (e.g., dehydration). Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. Your doctor will determine if regular monitoring is needed, especially if you have conditions like kidney disease or liver problems.
Can diet affect this test?
Dietary changes may influence protein levels, so avoid high-protein supplements or extreme diets before testing unless instructed by your doctor.
  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