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Serum/plasma total protein concentration (electrochemiluminescence)

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 balance and potential issues like malnutrition or kidney problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
79707-6
Short code
VLCFA C26:1/C22:0 SerPl-sRto
Synonyms
VLCFA C26:1/C22:0 SerPl-sRto
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 like malnutrition, kidney disease, liver disease, or dehydration. It can also help monitor protein levels after treatments or surgeries.

What to Expect During the Test

A small needle will be inserted into your arm to draw blood. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually takes only a few minutes. The blood is then sent to a lab for testing.

Common Conditions Monitored

High total protein levels might suggest conditions like dehydration or chronic inflammation, while low levels could indicate malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a general reference range, but individual results depend on your health and medical history. Your provider will discuss what your specific results mean for you.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Total protein levels can reflect the body’s protein status and are used to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting protein synthesis, absorption, or excretion. Abnormalities may indicate systemic diseases, nutritional deficiencies, or organ dysfunction.

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes high total protein levels?
High total protein levels can occur due to dehydration, chronic inflammation, or certain types of cancer. Your doctor will review your symptoms and other test results to determine the cause.
What causes low total protein levels?
Low total protein levels are often linked to malnutrition, kidney disease, liver disease, or certain medications. Lifestyle factors like poor diet can also play a role.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health condition. Your doctor may recommend this test periodically if you have ongoing health issues like kidney or liver disease, or if you’re undergoing treatment that affects protein levels.
  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