Skip to content

Serum/plasma concentration of total protein by nephelometry

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes albumin and other proteins like globulins.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess your body’s protein balance and can indicate conditions like malnutrition or kidney issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
105931-0
Short code
sp3 Cath Tip Gram Stn
Synonyms
sp3 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 Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein levels, such as kidney disease, liver problems, or malnutrition. It can also help diagnose or monitor certain diseases like multiple myeloma or severe infections.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Avoid strenuous activity before the test.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it should only take a few minutes. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are typically reported as a numerical value representing the total protein concentration in your blood. While reference ranges vary by lab, lower or higher than expected levels may signal underlying health concerns.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Low total protein levels may suggest conditions like malnutrition, severe infections, or kidney disease, where the body fails to produce or retain proteins effectively. High levels could indicate conditions like dehydration, multiple myeloma, or liver disease, where protein production is excessive or altered.

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health condition, symptoms, and medical history. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have ongoing health issues like kidney or liver disease.
What does a low or high protein level mean?
Low protein levels might mean your body isn’t absorbing nutrients properly, or there could be an underlying health issue affecting protein production. High protein levels could indicate dehydration, certain cancers, or other metabolic conditions. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
Can diet affect my protein test results?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. Eating a balanced diet rich in proteins may help maintain normal levels, but extreme dietary changes or conditions like malnutrition can affect results. Follow your doctor’s advice regarding dietary adjustments.
  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