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Total Protein in Serum (Bromocresol Blue Dye Binding)

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

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

Quick summary

["Your blood protein levels help assess hydration, liver function, and overall protein synthesis."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
57845-0
Short code
WBC # Fld Auto
Synonyms
WBC # Fld Auto
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
4.5
Ref high
11
Critical range
2 N/A – 30 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
automated-count
CPT
85004
SNOMED
900000000000003002
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 This Test Matters

Blood proteins play key roles in your body’s health. Low levels might suggest conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems, while high levels could indicate dehydration or certain inflammatory states. This test helps doctors monitor these conditions and guide treatment plans.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.

Common Conditions Monitored

Doctors use total serum protein levels to diagnose or monitor conditions such as malnutrition, kidney disease, liver disorders, or chronic inflammation. It can also help assess hydration status or detect protein-losing syndromes.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a numerical value (e.g., grams per deciliter). While reference ranges vary by lab, very low or very high levels may signal underlying health concerns that need further evaluation.

Reference range

Adult: 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Serum Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes low total protein levels?
Low protein levels can result from conditions like severe malnutrition, kidney disease, liver failure, or chronic infections. It may also occur if your body loses protein through wounds, vomiting, or diarrhea.
What causes high total protein levels?
High protein levels are less common but can occur with dehydration, certain inflammatory diseases, or conditions that increase protein synthesis (e.g., some cancers). Rarely, it may also be due to lab errors or overinterpretation of results.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health history, symptoms, and other tests. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have chronic conditions like kidney or liver disease.
  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