Total Protein (Serum or Plasma)
This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes important substances like albumin and globulins that help maintain fluid balance, support immunity, and transport nutrients.
["Your blood protein levels can indicate overall health, hydration, or potential medical conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 61281-2
- Short code
- Squid IgE/IgE total %
- Synonyms
- Squid IgE/IgE total %
- Category
- chemistry
- 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 This Test Matters
Blood protein levels are crucial for many bodily functions. Low levels may suggest conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, or severe infections, while high levels could indicate dehydration, inflammation, or certain liver disorders. This test helps doctors assess your overall health and identify underlying issues early.
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 your blood is drawn from a vein. Wear loose clothing and bring any medications or medical devices you use daily. Avoid strenuous activity the day before.
How the Test Works
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is sent to a lab, where it is analyzed to measure the total protein content. The test is typically completed within a few hours, depending on lab processing times.
Possible Results and Next Steps
Results are usually reported as a numerical value (e.g., grams per deciliter). If your results fall outside the expected range, your doctor may order additional tests or ask for follow-up visits to investigate potential causes, such as diet, kidney function, or liver health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated total protein levels may signal dehydration, chronic inflammation, or conditions like multiple myeloma. Low levels can indicate malnutrition, kidney disease, liver failure, or severe infections. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your medical history and symptoms to guide further care.
Short name
Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
What causes blood protein levels to be too high?
What causes blood protein levels to be too low?
How often should I get this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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