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Total Protein in Serum (or Plasma)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps your body’s tissues stay strong and healthy.

Quick summary

["Blood protein levels can signal health or potential issues like kidney problems or nutritional deficiencies."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
39015-3
Short code
T palldm Ab Fld HA-aCnc
Synonyms
T palldm Ab Fld HA-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
140
Ref high
280
Critical range
— – 1000 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ha
CPT
83615
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 It’s Done

Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or dehydration. It can also help monitor certain treatments or diagnose hidden protein loss in urine (proteinuria).

What to Expect

A small blood sample is taken from your arm. The blood is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure total protein content. Results are usually ready within a few days.

What the Results Mean

Higher-than-normal levels might suggest conditions like multiple myeloma, severe dehydration, or liver disease. Lower-than-normal levels could indicate malnutrition, kidney disease, or certain infections.

Common Conditions Monitored

Doctors use total protein levels to track kidney function, liver health, and overall protein balance in the body, especially in patients with chronic illnesses.

Reference range

Adult: 140-280 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

Total protein is a broad marker that reflects the balance of albumin and globulin proteins. While albumin is key for fluid balance and tissue repair, globulins support immunity and clotting. Abnormal levels can signal systemic issues beyond just one organ.
This test alone doesn’t diagnose a specific condition but often points to underlying problems that may need further testing (e.g., blood chemistries, urine tests).
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. For example, people with kidney or liver disease may need it monthly or more often, while healthy individuals might get it annually or as needed for monitoring.
What can affect my results?
Factors like diet (high-protein foods), certain medications, or recent illness (e.g., infection) can influence results. Always report all medications and recent health changes to your doctor.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy