Total Protein in Serum
This test measures the total amount of protein in your blood serum, which includes proteins like albumin and globulins that help with immunity, fluid balance, and other vital functions.
["Your blood protein levels can help doctors assess overall health, detect kidney issues, or identify nutritional deficiencies."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 37932-1
- Short code
- XR tomo Wrist
- Synonyms
- XR tomo Wrist
- 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
What Does Total Protein Measure?
Total protein is a broad measure of all protein substances in your blood. It reflects the balance between albumin (which helps maintain fluid balance in your tissues) and globulins (which support immune function and transport substances like hormones). Abnormal levels may indicate conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Doctors may check total protein levels if you have symptoms like swelling, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or if they suspect conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver disease, or certain infections. It’s also sometimes used as part of a general health screening.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw a blood sample. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test to avoid unusual bleeding.
What to Expect During the Test
The blood sample is taken quickly and usually causes only minor discomfort. You may feel a slight pinch or sting, but it’s over in seconds. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
How Total Protein Levels Can Affect Your Health
Short name
Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What are the normal ranges for total protein?
Can diet affect my total protein test results?
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