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Total Protein in Serum

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

This test measures the total amount of protein found in your blood serum. Proteins are essential for many bodily functions, including transporting nutrients, maintaining fluid balance, and supporting immune responses.

Quick summary

["Your blood protein levels help doctors assess overall health and detect potential issues like malnutrition or kidney problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
55467-5
Short code
11DC BS SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
11DC BS SerPl-sCnc
Category
hormone
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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

Doctors may order a total protein test to check for conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, liver problems, or certain immune disorders. It can also help monitor treatment progress for conditions affecting protein production or breakdown.

What to Expect

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The test involves collecting serum (the liquid part of blood after clotting) for analysis.

Common Conditions Monitored

Elevated protein levels might suggest conditions like multiple myeloma (a blood cancer), severe dehydration, or inflammatory diseases. Low protein levels could indicate malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems that prevent the body from absorbing or retaining proteins properly.

Factors That Can Affect Results

Several factors may influence your protein levels, including diet (especially protein intake), certain medications, chronic illnesses, or recent infections. For example, high protein diets or certain medications might temporarily raise levels, while severe illness could lower them.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

How is this test different from albumin or globulin tests?
This test measures the combined total of all proteins in your blood serum, including albumin and globulins. Albumin and globulin tests focus specifically on these protein subgroups, so they provide more detailed information about individual protein contributions to your overall protein status.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can typically eat and drink normally before this test unless your doctor or lab instructions specify otherwise. However, avoid alcohol or heavy meals 24 hours before the test if your provider recommends it, as these can sometimes affect protein levels.
What are the typical reference ranges for this test?
Reference ranges for total protein can vary slightly between labs, but they generally fall between 6.0 to 8.0 grams per deciliter (g/dL) in adults. Your actual results should always be reviewed by your healthcare provider, as they consider your health status and other factors.
  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