Total Protein with Fractionation (Serum)
This test measures the overall protein content in your blood and separates it into different protein fractions, which can help identify abnormalities in protein levels.
["Understanding your blood protein composition helps diagnose conditions like liver disease, kidney problems, or nutritional deficiencies."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 58463-1
- Short code
- Tau Prot MFr CSF
- Synonyms
- Tau Prot MFr CSF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
The test evaluates total protein levels and breaks them down into key protein categories, including albumin, globulins, and other fractions. This helps assess overall protein health and identify specific protein-related issues in your bloodstream.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein production, such as liver disease, kidney disease, malnutrition, or certain immune disorders. It can also help monitor treatment progress for conditions like cirrhosis or chronic kidney disease.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You’ll typically have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.
What Are Common Results and Their Meanings?
While exact reference ranges vary by lab, abnormal protein fractions may signal conditions like low albumin (which could indicate liver or kidney issues) or elevated globulins (which might suggest inflammation or immune disorders). Your results will be interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein levels or fractions can indicate underlying health issues, such as chronic liver disease, kidney dysfunction, infections, or malnutrition. For example, low albumin may reflect poor liver function or protein loss, while high globulins could signal chronic inflammation or autoimmune conditions. This test helps guide treatment decisions and monitor disease progression.
Short name
Total Protein Breakdown
Frequently asked questions
What does a total protein test with fractionation tell me about my health?
How long will it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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