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Serum/plasma concentration of total protein by nephelometry

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes albumin and other proteins like globulins.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall protein levels and potential nutritional or kidney issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
98215-7
Short code
T palldm Ab CSF Ql IA
Synonyms
T palldm Ab CSF Ql IA
Category
chemistry
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
Specimen volume
1-2 mL
Stability
Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
Hemolysis max
200
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein levels, such as malnutrition, kidney disease, liver problems, or certain immune disorders. It can also help monitor treatment responses in conditions like chronic kidney disease or protein-losing syndromes.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have blood drawn from a vein in your arm, similar to other blood tests. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a general reference range for healthy adults. Low protein levels may suggest poor nutrition, liver or kidney disease, or excessive protein loss. High levels could indicate dehydration, multiple myeloma, or other conditions.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, severe malnutrition, or certain autoimmune diseases where protein balance is critical.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes low total protein levels?
Low total protein levels can result from conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, kidney disease, or excessive protein loss due to conditions such as nephrotic syndrome or severe diarrhea.
What causes high total protein levels?
High total protein levels may be due to dehydration, multiple myeloma (a blood cancer), or certain inflammatory conditions. Rarely, it can also occur in conditions like multiple sclerosis or severe infections.
How often should this test be repeated?
Your healthcare provider will determine how often to repeat this test based on your symptoms, medical history, and treatment plan. Follow-up may be needed if initial results are abnormal or if you have ongoing health concerns.
  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