Skip to content

Serum/plasma concentration of total protein by nephelometry

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

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps your body build and maintain tissues and supports immune function.

Quick summary

["Total protein levels can indicate overall health and potential issues like dehydration or liver/kidney problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
105930-2
Short code
sp2 Cath Tip Gram Stn
Synonyms
sp2 Cath Tip Gram Stn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
gram-stain
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 This Test Is Done

Doctors may order a total protein test to check for conditions affecting protein production, such as liver disease, kidney problems, or certain immune disorders. It can also help diagnose dehydration or monitor long-term health in chronic conditions like heart failure or kidney disease.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader blood workup. Wear comfortable clothing for the blood draw.

How the Test Works

A small sample of blood is taken from a vein in your arm. The lab then uses a nephelometry method to measure the total protein content in your serum or plasma.

Possible Results and Their Meaning

Higher-than-normal levels might suggest conditions like multiple myeloma (a blood cancer) or severe dehydration. Lower-than-normal levels could indicate liver disease, kidney problems, or malnutrition. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes high total protein levels?
What causes low total protein levels?
Low total protein is often linked to liver disease (reducing albumin production), kidney failure (filtering out proteins), malnutrition, or severe infections. It can also occur in chronic kidney disease or after prolonged vomiting/diarrhea.
Does diet affect this test?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. High-protein diets may temporarily raise levels, while severe malnutrition or protein loss (e.g., from kidney disease) can lower them. Your doctor may ask about recent dietary changes if results seem unusual.
Frequency depends on your health condition. Routine adults may not need it unless they have risk factors (e.g., chronic kidney/liver disease). Follow-up tests are often scheduled if you have a known condition affecting protein levels.
  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