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Serum or Plasma Total Protein by Bromocresol Green (BCG) 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 essential for maintaining fluid balance, transporting nutrients, and supporting immune function.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall health, kidney function, and potential protein-losing conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26411-9
Short code
Wheat Bran IgG4 Qn
Synonyms
Wheat Bran IgG4 Qn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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, detect conditions like liver disease, monitor nutritional status, or investigate symptoms such as swelling, fatigue, or unexplained weight changes.

What Does the Result Mean?

Results may be lower in conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, or severe liver problems, while elevated levels could suggest dehydration, inflammation, or certain cancers.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. This test does not require fasting.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used alongside other blood tests to diagnose or manage conditions like chronic kidney disease, cirrhosis, or protein-losing gastrointestinal disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Total protein levels can indirectly reflect kidney function, as the kidneys filter proteins. Low levels may signal kidney dysfunction or excessive protein loss, while high levels could indicate dehydration or inflammation. It is rarely used alone for diagnosis but often serves as part of a broader evaluation.

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes low total protein levels?
Low total protein can result from malnutrition, kidney disease, liver disease, severe infections, or conditions causing excessive protein loss (e.g., certain gastrointestinal disorders).
What causes high total protein levels?
High total protein may occur with dehydration, chronic inflammation, multiple myeloma, or certain cancers. It’s important to discuss symptoms with your provider to explore possible causes.
Does diet affect this test?
Dietary protein intake may influence results, but your provider will likely specify if fasting or dietary restrictions are needed. Focus on hydration and overall health rather than specific protein intake for this test.
  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