Serum or plasma concentration of total protein (mass concentration)
This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein balance, kidney function, and nutritional status.
["Total protein helps check if your body is producing enough protein or if your kidneys are filtering it properly."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 39409-8
- Short code
- XR tomo T-spine Lat
- Synonyms
- XR tomo T-spine Lat
- 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 This Test Is Done
Doctors may order a total protein test to diagnose or monitor conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or certain autoimmune disorders. It can also help evaluate fluid balance or identify signs of protein loss in urine (e.g., in conditions like nephrotic syndrome).
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader blood panel. Wear comfortable clothing and plan for a short visit to a lab or clinic where a blood sample will be drawn.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare provider will clean the area near a vein (often in your arm) and insert a small needle to draw blood. You may feel a brief pinch, but the process takes only a few minutes. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported in grams per deciliter (g/dL). Low levels may suggest malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems, while high levels could indicate dehydration, inflammation, or conditions like multiple myeloma. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Total protein levels are a simple yet valuable marker for assessing protein synthesis, breakdown, and filtration. Abnormalities can signal systemic issues, guide treatment decisions, or prompt further testing (e.g., for albumin or specific protein markers).
Short name
Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
How often will I need this test?
What are the common causes of low or high total protein levels?
Can I eat or drink anything before the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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