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Serum or plasma total protein concentration

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes both albumin and globulin proteins.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall protein balance and potential kidney or liver issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
74807-9
Short code
sTfR SerPl
Synonyms
sTfR SerPl
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 It’s Done

Doctors may order this test to check for conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or dehydration. It can also help diagnose certain blood disorders or monitor treatment responses.

What to Expect

A small blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to determine protein levels.

Normal vs. Abnormal Results

While reference ranges vary by lab, lower than expected protein levels may suggest malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems. Higher levels could indicate dehydration or conditions like multiple myeloma.

Common Conditions Affecting Results

Changes in protein levels can occur with kidney disease (where proteins leak into urine), liver disease (where protein production is impaired), or chronic infections.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What might cause my protein levels to be low?
Low protein levels can result from poor nutrition, kidney disease, liver disease, or conditions that cause excessive protein loss (like severe infections). High levels may indicate dehydration or certain blood disorders.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health condition, symptoms, or treatment plan. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have chronic health issues like kidney or liver disease.
Can diet affect my protein test results?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. Eating a balanced diet with adequate protein may help maintain normal levels, but your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
  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