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Total Protein in Serum

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

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood serum, which helps assess overall protein levels and potential nutritional or kidney-related issues.

Quick summary

["Your blood protein levels can signal health concerns like malnutrition or kidney disease."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
41613-1
Short code
Tube # Smn
Synonyms
Tube # Smn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
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?

Doctors may order this test to evaluate protein balance in your body, check for conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems, or monitor treatment responses for conditions affecting protein synthesis or loss.

What Does the Result Mean?

Higher-than-normal results might indicate conditions like dehydration, multiple myeloma, or liver disease, while lower-than-normal results could suggest malnutrition, kidney disease, or severe burns.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum (the liquid part after clotting) for testing. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised depending on clinical context.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to monitor protein-related conditions such as chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, malnutrition, or to assess protein loss due to conditions like nephrotic syndrome.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

How often should I expect this test?
The frequency depends on your medical condition and treatment plan. Some patients may need this test monthly, quarterly, or annually, while others may only need it once or twice a year.
What does it feel like to have a blood draw?
Having a blood draw typically involves a small needle inserted into your arm, which may cause a brief sting or pinch. Most people feel minimal discomfort afterward, and you can usually return to normal activities immediately.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Check with your healthcare provider for specific instructions, but generally, you may eat and drink normally unless fasting is required for your test.
  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