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Serum or Plasma Total Protein Mass Concentration

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein levels and identify potential issues like malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps your doctor check for health conditions affecting protein balance in your body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
86078-3
Short code
S pneum Da 3 Ab Ser-mCnc
Synonyms
S pneum Da 3 Ab Ser-mCnc
Category
coagulation
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 Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test to evaluate symptoms such as swelling (edema), unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or changes in kidney or liver function. It can also be part of routine check-ups or investigations for conditions like protein-losing disorders or chronic illnesses.

What Does the Test Involve?

A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate the serum or plasma, where the protein content is measured using a specialized laboratory technique.

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?

Low total protein levels might suggest conditions like malnutrition, severe kidney disease, or liver failure. High levels could indicate dehydration, multiple myeloma, or certain inflammatory conditions.

How Is This Test Performed?

The test uses a method called turbidimetry or nephelometry to measure the concentration of proteins in the blood sample. This involves analyzing how light scatters through the sample to determine protein mass.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Total Protein Levels

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What does a low total protein level mean?
A low total protein level may indicate conditions such as malnutrition, chronic kidney disease, liver disease, or excessive protein loss due to conditions like nephrotic syndrome.
What does a high total protein level mean?
A high total protein level can be seen in dehydration, multiple myeloma, or certain inflammatory states, but it can also be a normal finding in some individuals, especially older adults.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health status, symptoms, and any underlying conditions. Regular tests may be recommended for people with chronic illnesses like kidney or liver disease.
  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