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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 levels and potential nutritional or kidney-related health concerns.

Quick summary

["Your blood protein levels can signal whether you have enough protein for your body’s needs or if there may be an underlying health issue."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
81302-2
Short code
Struct var inner start-end NumRange
Synonyms
Struct var inner start-end NumRange
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 Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like swelling (edema), unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or if they suspect conditions such as malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems. It’s also sometimes checked during routine blood work or when monitoring chronic illnesses.

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’s part of a broader metabolic or liver panel. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.

What the Results Mean

Higher-than-normal protein levels might indicate conditions like dehydration, multiple myeloma, or chronic inflammation. Lower-than-normal levels could suggest malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems. Your results will be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps diagnose or monitor conditions like protein-losing disorders, kidney disease, liver disease, or certain cancers. It can also be used to evaluate nutritional status in patients who may not be absorbing enough nutrients.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What does a total protein test measure?
This test measures the combined amount of all proteins in your blood serum, including albumin and globulins. These proteins play key roles in maintaining fluid balance, supporting immune function, and transporting nutrients.
How long does it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you during your follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
If fasting is required (common for some panels), avoid food and liquids—except water—for 8–12 hours before the test. If no fasting is needed, you can eat and drink normally, but check with your provider for specifics.
  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