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Total Serum Protein (Mass Concentration) by Electrophoresis

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood serum. Proteins help maintain fluid balance, support immune function, and transport nutrients.

Quick summary

["Your blood protein levels can indicate overall health and help diagnose conditions like dehydration or kidney disease."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
61271-3
Short code
Soybean IgE/IgE total %
Synonyms
Soybean IgE/IgE total %
Category
glucose
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 It’s Done

Doctors may order this test to check for signs of dehydration, kidney disease, liver problems, or nutritional deficiencies. It can also help evaluate protein-losing conditions or monitor treatment responses in certain diseases.

What to Expect

A small blood sample is taken from your arm, usually at a lab or doctor’s office. The sample is processed to measure total protein content using electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins based on size and charge.

Normal vs. Abnormal Results

While reference ranges vary by lab, lower than expected protein levels may suggest conditions like malnutrition, severe kidney disease, or excessive protein loss (e.g., from the intestines or lungs). Higher levels might indicate dehydration or conditions like multiple myeloma.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used alongside other blood tests to diagnose or monitor conditions such as nephrotic syndrome (kidney disease causing protein loss), liver cirrhosis, or chronic kidney disease.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my results back?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Follow up with your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
No special preparation is needed. However, avoid heavy meals or alcohol 24 hours before testing to ensure accurate results.
Does this test require fasting?
No fasting is required for this test, as it measures protein content in serum, not specific nutrients like glucose or cholesterol.
  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