Skip to content

Serum/plasma concentration of total protein by nephelometry

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. Proteins help maintain fluid balance, support immune function, and transport nutrients.

Quick summary

["Your blood protein levels can indicate overall health, hydration status, or potential conditions like liver disease or kidney problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
38084-0
Short code
XR Abd AP+L-Post Obl
Synonyms
XR Abd AP+L-Post Obl
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr
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 Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein production, such as liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis), kidney disease, malnutrition, or certain infections. It can also help monitor treatment responses or diagnose conditions like protein-losing syndromes.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a blood draw, where a small amount of blood is taken from a vein in your arm. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a total protein concentration in grams per deciliter (g/dL). Low levels may suggest malnutrition, liver or kidney disease, or excessive protein loss. High levels could indicate dehydration, multiple myeloma, or other conditions.

Common Conditions Affecting Protein Levels

Low protein levels might be linked to chronic liver disease, kidney failure, severe infections, or conditions like celiac disease that disrupt nutrient absorption. High levels could signal dehydration, certain cancers (e.g., multiple myeloma), or inflammatory diseases.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes low protein levels in blood?
Low protein levels can result from conditions that reduce protein production (e.g., liver disease), increased protein loss (e.g., kidney disease, heavy bleeding), or poor nutrition. Chronic infections or inflammatory diseases may also contribute.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your provider will discuss the results with you during your follow-up visit.
Can diet affect protein test results?
Dietary protein intake may influence short-term protein levels, but total protein tests are generally stable over a few days. Avoid extreme dietary changes before testing unless advised by your provider.
  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