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Serum or Plasma Total Protein by Electrophoresis (Bromocresol Purple)

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

This test measures the overall protein content in your blood, broken down by different protein types (e.g., albumin, globulins). It helps assess conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems.

Quick summary

["Total protein levels can signal underlying health issues that may need further evaluation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
35943-0
Short code
XR tomo Ankle-L
Synonyms
XR tomo Ankle-L
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-tomography
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 check for conditions affecting protein balance, such as liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis), kidney disease, malnutrition, or certain immune disorders. It can also help monitor treatment responses or diagnose conditions like multiple myeloma or protein-losing syndromes.

What Does the Test Involve?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed to separate proteins using electrophoresis with bromocresol purple dye. The test measures the total protein concentration in your serum or plasma.

What Are Common Results?

Results are typically reported as a total protein concentration (e.g., grams per deciliter). While reference ranges vary by lab, low or high levels may prompt further testing to identify causes.

What Might Affect Results?

Factors like diet (high-protein vs. low-protein), dehydration, certain medications, or medical conditions (e.g., kidney or liver disease) can influence protein levels. Recent blood loss or blood collection techniques may also impact results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Total Protein Electrophoresis

Frequently asked questions

What does a low total protein level mean?
Low total protein may indicate malnutrition, liver disease, kidney disease, or conditions causing excessive protein loss (e.g., protein-losing enteropathy). It can also signal chronic inflammation or immune disorders. Your provider may order additional tests to pinpoint the cause.
What does a high total protein level mean?
High total protein is less common but may occur in conditions like multiple myeloma, severe dehydration, or certain infections. It can also result from lab errors or overestimation due to clotting factors. Further evaluation is needed to determine the cause.
How often should I expect this test?
The frequency depends on your health status and treatment plan. Your provider may recommend this test periodically if you have ongoing conditions like kidney or liver disease, or if you’re undergoing monitoring for a specific condition.
  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