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Serum or plasma concentration of total protein by nephelometry

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

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

Quick summary

["Your blood protein levels can signal health concerns that need further evaluation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
10083-4
Short code
ST I-Amp 6ms L-AVL
Synonyms
ST I-Amp 6ms L-AVL
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 Is This Test Done?

Doctors may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein production, such as liver disease, kidney problems, or malnutrition. It can also be used to monitor treatment progress or diagnose certain medical conditions.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves drawing blood. Avoid strenuous activity or excessive hydration on the day of testing.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to standard ranges, but exact values can vary by lab. Low protein levels may indicate poor nutrition or organ dysfunction, while very high levels could suggest dehydration or certain inflammatory conditions.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps diagnose or monitor conditions like cirrhosis (liver disease), kidney failure, severe infections, or protein-losing disorders (e.g., nephrotic syndrome).

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: Abnormal protein levels can reflect systemic health issues, including organ dysfunction, immune disorders, or metabolic imbalances. High sensitivity makes it useful for early detection in certain chronic conditions.

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes protein levels to be too low?
Low protein levels may result from liver disease, kidney problems, malnutrition, severe infections, or conditions that cause excessive protein loss (e.g., diarrhea, burns).
What causes protein levels to be too high?
High protein levels can occur with dehydration, certain inflammatory diseases, or conditions like multiple myeloma. Rarely, it may also be due to lab errors or artificial substances.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. Doctors may recommend periodic testing if you have chronic conditions like liver disease or kidney problems, or if you’re undergoing treatment for malnutrition or infections.
  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