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Serum or Plasma Total Protein by Bromocresol Purple (BCP) Method

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes both albumin and globulin proteins. Proteins are essential for maintaining proper fluid balance, supporting immune function, and transporting nutrients.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall protein levels and can indicate conditions affecting blood composition or kidney function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
15307-2
Short code
Volume Testis-R from HWL
Synonyms
Volume Testis-R from HWL
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
us-derived-hwl
CPT
86430
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 evaluate kidney function, check for liver disease, diagnose malnutrition, or monitor conditions like edema (fluid retention) or protein-losing disorders. It can also help identify dehydration or overhydration.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a liver or kidney panel. Avoid excessive alcohol or certain medications that could affect results.

What Happens During the Test?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where proteins are measured using a method called bromocresol purple (BCP), which detects the total protein content in serum or plasma.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are reported in grams per deciliter (g/dL). Low protein levels may suggest malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems, while very high levels could indicate dehydration, multiple myeloma, or severe inflammation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Abnormal total protein levels can signal underlying health issues. For example, low protein may indicate poor nutrient absorption, liver dysfunction, or kidney disease, while high protein could reflect dehydration, chronic inflammation, or certain cancers. Regular monitoring helps track conditions like cirrhosis or nephrotic syndrome.

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes low total protein levels?
Low total protein can result from conditions like liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis), kidney problems (e.g., nephrotic syndrome), malnutrition, or severe infections. It may also occur if your body loses protein through wounds, burns, or excessive vomiting/diarrhea.
What causes high total protein levels?
High total protein is less common but can occur with dehydration, multiple myeloma (a blood cancer), chronic inflammation, or certain autoimmune diseases. Rarely, it may be due to overhydration or laboratory errors.
Do I need to avoid certain foods before this test?
No specific diet restrictions apply, but if your provider mentions fasting, follow their instructions. Avoid excessive salt or protein-rich foods if fasting is required, as they could influence 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