Skip to content

Total Protein in Serum

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

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood serum, which helps assess overall protein balance and potential nutritional or liver issues.

Quick summary

["Your blood protein levels can signal health concerns like malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
61266-3
Short code
Strawberry IgE/IgE total %
Synonyms
Strawberry 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 Is This Test Done?

Doctors may order this test to evaluate protein levels in conditions like malnutrition, liver disease (such as cirrhosis), kidney disease, or to monitor protein loss due to wounds, burns, or certain medications.

What Does It Mean If Results Are Abnormal?

Low total protein may indicate malnutrition, liver or kidney disease, or excessive protein loss. High levels could suggest dehydration, inflammation, or conditions like multiple myeloma.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The serum portion is separated and analyzed to determine protein concentration using standard laboratory methods.

What Can Affect Results?

Factors like recent protein intake, hydration status, certain medications, or underlying health conditions (e.g., liver/kidney disease) can influence results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing schedule.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
No special preparation is needed, but avoid excessive protein intake 24 hours before testing if instructed by your doctor.
Does this test require fasting?
No fasting is required for this test, but check with your healthcare provider if you have questions about timing.
  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