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Serum or plasma mass concentration of total protein

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 overall protein levels and potential nutritional or kidney issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
60968-5
Short code
ST Amp L-ES
Synonyms
ST Amp L-ES
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ekg
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

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, liver problems, or certain infections. It can also help monitor treatment responses or diagnose fluid imbalances.

What to Expect

A small blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it won’t cause significant discomfort. The test is quick and typically done in a clinic or lab.

Possible Results & Interpretation

While reference ranges vary by lab, lower than expected protein levels may suggest protein loss (e.g., in kidney disease) or poor nutrition. Higher levels could indicate dehydration or conditions like multiple myeloma. Your provider will discuss results with you.

Common Conditions Linked to Results

Abnormal protein levels can signal conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver disease, severe infections, or malnutrition. It’s not a standalone diagnosis but often part of a broader evaluation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What does a low total protein level mean?
A low total protein level may indicate problems like kidney disease (where protein leaks into urine), liver disease (reduced protein production), or malnutrition (insufficient dietary protein). Your provider will investigate further with additional tests or questions about your diet and symptoms.
What causes high total protein levels?
High total protein levels can result from dehydration (reduced fluid volume dilutes proteins) or conditions like multiple myeloma (abnormal protein production). Dehydration is often the most common cause and can be addressed by increasing fluids.
Can diet affect total protein test results?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. High-protein diets may temporarily raise protein levels, while poor nutrition (low protein intake) can lower them. Your provider may ask about diet changes if results are abnormal, especially if malnutrition is suspected.
  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