Total Protein is a blood test that measures total protein levels in the blood. Normal range: Total protein is typically 60-80 g/L and is the sum of albumin plus globulins. Because albumin and globulins move for different reasons, the value is most useful when split into those two fractions (the albumin-to-globulin, or A:G, ratio).. It is commonly used to helps evaluate nutritional status, liver function, kidney disease, and some inflammatory conditions..
What is Total Protein?
The sum of all proteins in blood plasma, including albumin and globulins.
Why is it measured?
Helps evaluate nutritional status, liver function, kidney disease, and some inflammatory conditions.
Normal Reference Range
Total protein is typically 60-80 g/L and is the sum of albumin plus globulins. Because albumin and globulins move for different reasons, the value is most useful when split into those two fractions (the albumin-to-globulin, or A:G, ratio).
Note: Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
What Causes High TOTAL?
High total protein is most often caused by dehydration (a concentration effect) or by raised globulins from chronic inflammation or infection. The most important cause to exclude is a paraprotein — an abnormal antibody produced in multiple myeloma or related conditions — which is investigated with serum protein electrophoresis when suspected.
What Causes Low TOTAL?
Low total protein usually reflects low albumin and points to liver disease (reduced production), kidney disease with protein loss (nephrotic syndrome), malnutrition or malabsorption, protein-losing gut conditions, or fluid overload diluting the blood. The albumin and globulin breakdown shows which fraction is responsible.
How Often Should TOTAL Be Tested?
Total protein is included in routine liver and general biochemistry panels. When abnormal, it is interpreted with the albumin/globulin split, and serum protein electrophoresis is added if a paraprotein (myeloma) is suspected. It is monitored in chronic liver, kidney and inflammatory disease.
Related Blood Markers
Total protein is interpreted with albumin and the calculated globulins and A:G ratio, the rest of the liver panel, and serum protein electrophoresis when a monoclonal protein is suspected.
Key Facts
- •Category: Vital Organ Functions
- •Unit of Measurement: g/L
- •Test Code: TOTAL_PROTEIN
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