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Total Protein in Serum

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

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood serum, which helps assess overall protein levels and potential nutritional or kidney health issues.

Quick summary

["Your blood protein levels can signal kidney function, dietary needs, or other health concerns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
35977-8
Short code
XR tomo LE-L
Synonyms
XR tomo LE-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 It’s Done

Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, liver problems, or to monitor treatment responses. It can also help diagnose conditions affecting protein synthesis or breakdown in the body.

What to Expect

A small blood sample is taken from your arm. The process is quick and usually requires little preparation. Results are used to guide further medical decisions.

Normal vs. Abnormal Results

While reference ranges vary by lab, higher levels might suggest dehydration, inflammation, or liver issues, while lower levels could indicate malnutrition, kidney disease, or protein-losing conditions.

Common Conditions Linked to Results

Elevated protein levels may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, severe infections, or dehydration. Low protein levels can signal kidney disease, liver failure, or chronic malnutrition.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low total protein level mean for my health?
High levels may signal dehydration, inflammation, or certain cancers, while low levels could point to kidney problems, liver disease, or poor nutrition. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Do I need to prepare for this blood test?
No special preparation is needed, but avoid heavy meals 2 hours before the test. Rest assured—your blood sample is drawn quickly and safely.
Can I get my protein levels checked at home?
Currently, at-home protein tests aren’t widely available or FDA-approved for clinical use. Your doctor will arrange this test through a lab in a medical setting.
  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