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Serum or plasma mass concentration of total protein

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

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein levels and kidney function.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps 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
37760-6
Short code
XR tomo Knee-R
Synonyms
XR tomo Knee-R
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 kidney disease, liver disease, malnutrition, or dehydration. It can also help monitor treatments for these conditions.

What Does a Low or High Protein Level Mean?

Low protein levels may suggest conditions like kidney disease (where protein leaks into urine), liver disease (where the liver can’t produce enough protein), or malnutrition. High protein levels could indicate dehydration, severe burns, or certain blood disorders.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab to measure total protein content using standard laboratory techniques.

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?

Abnormal results may be due to underlying health issues like chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, severe infections, or conditions that affect fluid balance in the body.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Total protein levels are critical for diagnosing and managing conditions that disrupt protein synthesis, retention, or excretion. Low protein can impair immune function and tissue repair, while high protein may signal dehydration or metabolic stress. Regular monitoring helps guide treatment for chronic conditions.

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What does a total protein test measure?
It measures the combined amount of all proteins in your blood, including albumin and globulins, which are essential for maintaining fluid balance, immune function, and tissue health.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on lab processing times and your healthcare provider’s workflow.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You may eat and drink normally before the test unless instructed otherwise by your provider, as fasting is not required for this blood 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