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Total Protein in Serum or Plasma

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

This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, which includes albumin and other proteins like globulins. Proteins are essential for maintaining fluid balance, transporting nutrients, and supporting immune function.

Quick summary

["Your blood protein levels help assess hydration, liver function, and overall protein status."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36065-1
Short code
XR tomo Should-L
Synonyms
XR tomo Should-L
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
100
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr-tomography
CPT
83721
SNOMED
113079007
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 This Test Is Done

Doctors may order a total protein test to check for conditions affecting protein production, such as liver disease, kidney problems, or malnutrition. It can also help diagnose conditions like multiple myeloma, where abnormal protein production occurs, or to monitor treatment responses in certain diseases.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves drawing blood from a vein, but this is not always required for serum/plasma protein testing. Avoid heavy meals or alcohol before testing if instructed.

How the Test Is Performed

A healthcare provider will collect a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. The blood is placed in a tube and sent to a lab for analysis. If testing urine or other fluids, a small sample is collected and processed similarly.

What the Results Mean

Results are reported as a total protein concentration (e.g., grams per deciliter). High or low levels may signal underlying health issues, but interpretation depends on your medical history and symptoms. Your doctor will discuss findings with you.

Reference range

Optimal: <100 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

Fasting for 12-14 hours preferred. Water is permitted. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes high total protein levels?
High protein levels can result from dehydration, chronic infections, inflammatory diseases, or certain cancers (e.g., multiple myeloma). Rarely, it may be due to overproduction of specific proteins. Your doctor will investigate further if results are elevated.
What causes low total protein levels?
Low protein levels often stem from liver disease (reducing albumin synthesis), kidney disease (protein loss in urine), malnutrition, or severe burns. Chronic conditions like cirrhosis or kidney failure can also lead to decreased protein production or loss.
Can diet affect total protein test results?
Dietary protein intake may influence short-term protein levels, but total protein testing typically reflects long-term status. Avoid extreme dietary changes before testing unless advised by your doctor, as this could skew results.
  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