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Total Protein in Serum or Plasma

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

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein levels and kidney function.

Quick summary

["Protein levels can signal kidney health or other health concerns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
6562-3
Short code
T palldm IgM Ser Ql
Synonyms
T palldm IgM Ser Ql
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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or dehydration. It can also help monitor treatment effectiveness for certain conditions.

What Does a Result Mean?

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

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum (liquid part after clotting) or plasma (liquid part after anticoagulant use).

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to monitor kidney function, detect protein-losing conditions, and evaluate nutritional status. It can also help diagnose or manage liver disease.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes high protein levels in blood?
High protein levels may be due to conditions like kidney disease, dehydration, multiple myeloma, or certain infections. Your doctor will discuss possible causes based on your symptoms and test results.
What causes low protein levels in blood?
Low protein levels can result from malnutrition, liver disease, severe burns, or kidney problems. Chronic conditions like cirrhosis or kidney failure may also lead to reduced protein synthesis or loss.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health condition and treatment plan. Your healthcare provider will determine how often to check your protein levels, often as part of routine or ongoing 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