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Serum or plasma concentration of total protein (including albumin and globulins)

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. Proteins are essential for maintaining fluid balance, supporting immune function, and transporting nutrients.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess overall health and identify potential issues like dehydration, liver disease, or kidney problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36003-2
Short code
XR tomo Hand
Synonyms
XR tomo Hand
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?

Doctors may order a total protein test to check for conditions affecting protein levels, such as malnutrition, liver disease (like cirrhosis), kidney disease, or certain immune disorders. It can also help diagnose or monitor conditions like multiple myeloma or inflammatory diseases.

What Does a Low or High Protein Level Mean?

Low protein levels may indicate malnutrition, severe liver or kidney disease, or conditions that cause excessive protein loss (e.g., kidney disease). High protein levels could suggest dehydration, certain cancers, or overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab for testing. The test measures the total protein content in the serum or plasma portion of the blood.

What Are Common Reference Ranges?

Reference ranges can vary by lab and testing method, but typical values for total protein in serum/plasma generally fall between 6.4 and 8.3 grams per deciliter (g/dL). These ranges may not apply to all labs.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Total protein levels are important for diagnosing and managing conditions that affect protein synthesis, breakdown, or loss. For example, low protein levels can signal malnutrition or organ dysfunction, while high levels may indicate dehydration or underlying diseases like multiple myeloma. Regular monitoring helps track disease progression or treatment effectiveness.

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes low total protein levels?
Low total protein levels can be caused by conditions like severe liver disease (cirrhosis), kidney disease, malnutrition, or certain infections. Chronic inflammation or conditions that lead to excessive protein loss (e.g., protein-losing enteropathy) may also contribute.
What are the symptoms of abnormal protein levels?
Symptoms may vary depending on whether protein levels are low or high. Low protein levels might cause fatigue, swelling (edema), weight loss, or frequent infections. High protein levels may not always show symptoms but could be linked to dehydration or severe medical conditions like multiple myeloma.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health condition, symptoms, and medical history. Some people may need it annually or more frequently if they have ongoing health issues like liver or kidney 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