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Total Protein in Serum

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood serum, which includes important substances like albumin and globulins.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess your body’s protein balance and overall kidney function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
109616-3
Short code
tPA Msmt PPP
Synonyms
tPA Msmt PPP
Category
chemistry
Sample
plasma
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
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 doctor may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein levels, such as kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or certain infections. It can also help diagnose or monitor conditions like nephrotic syndrome or protein-losing disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Higher-than-normal levels might suggest liver disease, dehydration, or conditions that cause excessive protein production. Lower-than-normal levels could indicate malnutrition, kidney disease, or overhydration.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used alongside other blood tests to diagnose or track conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, or inflammatory diseases.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

Why might my total protein test be abnormal?
Abnormal results could be due to conditions like liver disease, kidney problems, malnutrition, or certain infections. Your doctor will discuss your specific results and next steps with you.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. If you have a chronic condition like kidney disease or liver disease, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring. Otherwise, it’s often done as needed for diagnosis or follow-up.
Can diet affect my total protein test results?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. High-protein diets or dehydration may raise protein levels, while low-protein diets or overhydration may lower them. Your doctor may ask about your diet if results seem unusual.
  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