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Serum/plasma total protein concentration (mass concentration)

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes albumin and other proteins like globulins.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall protein levels and potential kidney or liver function issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
38538-5
Short code
VLCFA C26:1/C22:0 SerPl
Synonyms
VLCFA C26:1/C22:0 SerPl
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?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein production, such as liver disease, kidney problems, or malnutrition. It can also help diagnose dehydration or certain inflammatory or autoimmune disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a liver function panel. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking.

What the Results Mean

Higher-than-normal results may suggest conditions like dehydration, kidney disease, or liver problems, while lower-than-normal results could indicate malnutrition, severe liver disease, or protein-losing conditions.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to monitor liver function, kidney health, and nutritional status. It may also be checked in patients with chronic diseases like heart failure or inflammatory conditions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated total protein can indicate conditions like multiple myeloma (cancer of plasma cells), severe dehydration, or chronic kidney disease. Low total protein may signal liver dysfunction, malnutrition, or conditions causing excessive protein loss (e.g., nephrotic syndrome). Always discuss results with your provider for personalized interpretation.

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes total protein levels to be too high?
High total protein can result from dehydration, certain cancers (like multiple myeloma), or chronic kidney disease. Rarely, it may also occur in conditions like severe infections or inflammatory responses.
What causes total protein levels to be too low?
Low total protein is often linked to liver disease, malnutrition, kidney problems, or conditions causing protein loss (e.g., severe diarrhea, burns, or certain autoimmune diseases).
Can diet affect this test result?
Dietary changes alone won’t directly alter total protein levels, but a balanced diet supports overall protein production. Avoid extreme diets or protein deficiencies, as they may impact 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