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Total Protein with Albumin-to-Globulin Ratio (Serum)

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

This test measures your blood’s total protein levels and compares albumin to globulin to help assess protein balance and potential health issues.

Quick summary

["Understanding your protein balance can reveal kidney, liver, or immune system concerns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111297-8
Short code
T palldm IgM Msmt Ser
Synonyms
T palldm IgM Msmt Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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

What Does This Test Measure?

Total protein includes all proteins in your blood, such as albumin and globulin. Albumin helps maintain fluid balance, while globulins support immune function and transport substances like hormones. The albumin-to-globulin (AG) ratio helps identify imbalances that may signal conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, or chronic inflammation.

Why Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test to check for protein loss (e.g., kidney disease), liver dysfunction, or immune system problems. It can also help monitor conditions like nephrotic syndrome, chronic infections, or malnutrition.

Sample Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The serum (liquid part after clotting) is used for testing. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised depending on your doctor’s instructions.

What Might Affect Results?

Factors like dehydration, certain medications (e.g., steroids), infections, or recent blood loss can influence protein levels. Dietary changes or chronic illnesses (e.g., kidney disease) may also impact the AG ratio.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Protein & AG Ratio

Frequently asked questions

An elevated AG ratio may suggest liver disease, chronic infection, or inflammation. A low AG ratio could indicate malnutrition, severe liver failure, or kidney problems. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
This test alone doesn’t diagnose a specific condition. Your doctor will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test results for a full evaluation.
What does a high total protein level mean?
A high total protein level may indicate dehydration, multiple myeloma (a blood cancer), or severe inflammation. Your doctor will review the full picture, including albumin and globulin levels, to interpret results accurately.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Follow-up may be needed if your doctor has specific questions about the results.
  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