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Liver health

Total Protein

Also known as: Serum total protein test, Total serum protein

A total protein test measures the total amount of protein in your blood, primarily albumin and globulin. These proteins are vital for maintaining fluid balance, transporting hormones and nutrients, and supporting immune function.

This test gives healthcare providers a broad look at overall health — especially liver function, kidney function, and nutritional status. It’s typically included in a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) or ordered when symptoms suggest liver disease, malnutrition, or chronic inflammation.

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Key takeaways

  • Sample required: Blood

  • Tests for: Combined levels of albumin and globulin proteins in the blood

  • Typical healthy range: About 6.1 to 8.1 grams per deciliter (g/dL); may vary slightly by lab and testing method

What can a total protein test tell you?

The total protein test helps determine if the balance of albumin and globulins in your blood is normal. These proteins perform essential tasks:

  • Albumin keeps fluid from leaking out of blood vessels and carries hormones, vitamins, and medications.

  • Globulins include antibodies that help fight infection and other proteins that transport fats and metals.

Because total protein reflects so many body functions, abnormal levels may indicate conditions affecting your liver, kidneys, immune system, or nutrition.

What is being tested?

The total protein test measures the concentration of albumin and globulin proteins in the plasma (liquid portion) of your blood.

The albumin-to-globulin (A/G) ratio is sometimes calculated alongside total protein to help distinguish whether abnormalities stem from one or both protein types.

Where is the total protein test typically included?

It’s typically included in the following panels:

  • Comprehensive metabolic panel, which evaluates kidney, liver, and metabolic function

  • Liver function test, which assesses for liver damage or disease

Total protein testing is included as part of lab testing through Hers, which goes beyond standard lab tests to help you understand what’s really going on in your body and either address or get ahead of problem areas with a tailored action plan.

Who should get a total protein test?

This test may be ordered as part of a general checkup or if you have symptoms that could indicate an issue with your liver, kidneys, immune system, or nutrition.

Symptoms that may indicate a need for testing include:

  • Fatigue or weakness

  • Swelling in the legs, ankles, or around the eyes

  • Loss of appetite or unintentional weight loss

  • Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)

  • Frequent infections

  • Bone pain or muscle cramps

Your provider may also want to regularly test your total protein if you have any of the following conditions:

  • Liver disease

  • Kidney disorders

  • Malnutrition or malabsorption (celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease)

  • Autoimmune diseases (lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)

  • Multiple myeloma or other plasma cell disorders

  • Chronic infections or inflammatory conditions

How Labs by Hers works

  • 1

    Book your test

    Schedule a lab draw in the Hers app at one of more than 2,000 convenient locations.

  • 2

    Get your results

    Review your lab results to understand which areas of your health may need attention.

  • 3

    Spot early signals

    Identify potential health risks or system imbalances before they become more serious.

  • 4

    Get your action plan

    Receive expert guidance tailored to your health profile and test results.

  • 5

    Improve over time

    Track your progress through a mid-year panel and ongoing provider check-ins.

Not available in all 50 states. Eligibility and provider order required. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. A provider will reach out about critical results and plans include access to 24/7 provider messaging.

Images for illustrative purposes only.

Frequently asked questions

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What causes changes in total protein levels?

Low total protein levels may be caused by malnutrition, chronic liver disease, kidney disease, malabsorption syndromes, or overhydration.

High total protein levels may be due to dehydration, chronic infections (e.g., hepatitis, HIV), autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis), or certain cancers (e.g., multiple myeloma, Waldenström macroglobulinemia).

Is fasting required?

No fasting is needed, but a balanced diet and good hydration before testing are recommended.

How long do results take?

Most labs provide results within 24 to 48 hours.

Can dehydration affect results?

Yes — dehydration can falsely elevate protein levels, while overhydration can lower them.

What happens if total protein is high or low?

Your provider will likely order further testing, such as albumin, globulin, or SPEP, to find the cause.

Does insurance cover this test?

Yes, when ordered for medical evaluation or as part of a CMP. Insurance is not required with lab testing through Hers. 

What tests are related to this biomarker?

• Albumin test

• Globulin and A/G Ratio

• Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP)

• Liver function tests (LFTs)

• Serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP)

The information provided here is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always talk to a qualified healthcare provider about your specific health concerns.

Related biomarkers

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Alanine Transaminase (ALT)

Alanine transaminase (ALT) is an enzyme found in liver cells that helps process amino acids. This enzyme is a key marker that shows if your liver cells are healthy and working normally.

Learn more about Alanine Transaminase (ALT)

Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme in the liver and muscles that helps to process amino acids. Healthy levels mean your liver and muscles are not under stress or injured.

Learn more about Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)

Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme that reflects bile flow and liver function. A healthy level indicates proper bone metabolism and that your liver and gallbladder are functioning without signs of stress.

Learn more about Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)

Albumin

Albumin is a protein made by the liver that helps carry hormones, vitamins, and nutrients through the blood. It also helps to keep fluid in your blood vessels.

Learn more about Albumin

Total Bilirubin

Bilirubin is a waste product made when old red blood cells break down. Your liver helps remove bilirubin from your blood, so normal levels usually mean your liver is clearing waste efficiently.

Learn more about Total Bilirubin

Globulin

Globulins are a group of proteins in your blood that include antibodies, which help your body fight infection, and other proteins that carry hormones and nutrients. Healthy levels suggest your immune system and liver are working well.

Learn more about Globulin

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Reviewed by Darragh O'Carroll, MD

Published 12/04/2025