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Plasma or serum protein mass concentration (e.g., total protein)

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.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps assess hydration, liver function, and potential protein loss conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33007-6
Short code
ZPP Bld-mCnc
Synonyms
ZPP Bld-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions like dehydration, kidney disease, liver problems, or malnutrition. It can also help monitor protein loss due to conditions like kidney disease or certain cancers.

What Does a Low or High Result Mean?

Low total protein levels might suggest dehydration, liver or kidney issues, or malnutrition. High levels could indicate dehydration, multiple myeloma, or severe liver disease.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate plasma or serum for testing.

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?

Changes in total protein can result from fluid balance issues, liver or kidney disease, certain medications, or conditions causing excessive protein loss.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Total protein is a broad marker that reflects overall protein status in the body. While it doesn’t specify which proteins are low or high, it can signal systemic issues requiring further evaluation, such as protein-losing gastrointestinal disorders or chronic kidney disease.

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What does a total protein test tell me about my health?
It provides a general picture of your protein levels but doesn’t identify specific protein types. It’s often used alongside other tests to diagnose conditions affecting protein balance.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
Typically, you can eat and drink normally unless your provider specifies otherwise. Some tests may require fasting, but protein tests usually do not.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within a few days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
  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