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Serum or plasma total protein concentration (mass concentration)

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

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

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47419-7
Short code
VZV Ab Ser IA-aCnc
Synonyms
VZV Ab Ser IA-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
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 It’s Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein production, absorption, or loss in urine. It can also help diagnose kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or certain infections.

What to Expect

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to determine protein levels.

Normal vs. Abnormal Results

While reference ranges vary by lab, higher than expected levels may suggest conditions like dehydration, multiple myeloma, or severe infections. Lower levels could indicate malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used alongside others to monitor kidney function, liver health, and protein metabolism in chronic diseases like heart failure or diabetes.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated total protein may indicate dehydration, inflammation, or conditions like multiple myeloma, where abnormal protein production occurs. Low levels can signal malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney dysfunction, where proteins are lost in urine or poorly synthesized.

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes total protein levels to be too high?
High total protein can result from dehydration, chronic infections, or conditions like multiple myeloma, where the body produces too much protein. It may also appear in severe burns or certain autoimmune diseases.
What causes total protein levels to be too low?
Low total protein often stems from malnutrition, liver disease (where proteins aren’t made), or kidney disease (where proteins are lost in urine). Rarely, it can occur with certain medications or hormonal imbalances.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health condition. Your doctor may recommend it annually for stable chronic diseases or more often if you have kidney/liver issues, infections, or recent weight changes.
  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