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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 includes important substances like albumin and globulins that help maintain fluid balance, support immunity, and transport nutrients.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall health and detect conditions affecting protein production or kidney function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
97915-3
Short code
TGT Pnl PPP
Synonyms
TGT Pnl PPP
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?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, kidney problems, or infections. It can also help monitor chronic diseases or evaluate symptoms such as swelling, fatigue, or unexplained weight changes.

What to Expect Before the Test

You can eat and drink normally before this test. No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider if you’re taking medications that might affect protein levels, such as certain steroids or chemotherapy drugs.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then separated into serum (the liquid part after clotting) and analyzed to measure total protein content using a laboratory method like nephelometry or turbidimetry.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported in grams per deciliter (g/dL). Low levels may indicate malnutrition, liver or kidney disease, or chronic infections. High levels could suggest dehydration, multiple myeloma, or certain inflammatory conditions. Always discuss results with your provider.

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 usually available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your provider will contact you with the final report once it’s ready.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
Yes, you can eat and drink normally before this test. Avoid alcohol or large meals 2 hours before drawing blood if instructed, but standard protein-rich foods do not affect this test.
What if my protein levels are abnormal?
If your results are outside the expected range, your provider will review them with you and may recommend further tests, like checking albumin or specific protein fractions, to determine the cause. Follow-up may include dietary adjustments, medical treatments, or additional monitoring.
  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