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Serum or Plasma Substance Concentration by Immunoassay (e.g., for Total Protein)

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall health and detect conditions like dehydration, liver disease, or kidney problems.

Quick summary

["Total protein levels can signal underlying health issues or fluid balance problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
103380-2
Short code
XR Toe 3rd-L GE 2V
Synonyms
XR Toe 3rd-L GE 2V
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
20
Ref high
400
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr
CPT
82670
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?

Doctors may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein production, such as liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis), kidney disease, or malnutrition. It can also help evaluate hydration status or diagnose certain immune system disorders.

What Does a Result Mean?

Results may indicate low protein levels if you’re not eating enough protein, have liver or kidney issues, or experience severe fluid loss. High levels could suggest dehydration, multiple myeloma, or other rare conditions.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used alongside others to monitor liver function, kidney health, or fluid balance in patients with chronic illnesses like heart failure or diabetes.

Sample Collection & Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed into serum (after clotting) or plasma (after anticoagulant use) for testing.

Reference range

Premenopausal: 20-400 pg/mL; Postmenopausal: <30 pg/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Total Protein Levels Reflect Organ Function and Nutritional Status

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes low protein levels?
Low protein levels can result from poor nutrition, liver or kidney disease, severe infections, or conditions that cause rapid fluid shifts (e.g., burns). Chronic kidney disease or certain cancers may also lead to abnormal protein breakdown.
What causes high protein levels?
High protein levels may occur in dehydration, multiple myeloma (a blood cancer), or rare conditions like nephrotic syndrome. In some cases, it can be a normal finding if blood is concentrated (e.g., from high altitude or vigorous exercise).
How often should this test be repeated?
Repetition depends on your condition. If your doctor orders it for monitoring (e.g., kidney/liver disease), they’ll determine timing. Follow their guidance—do not repeat without approval.
  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