Total Serum Protein Test
500 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
None
Purpose
The Total Serum Protein Test is a blood test that measures the overall concentration of proteins in the blood, primarily albumin and globulin. These proteins play essential roles in maintaining osmotic pressure, immune function, and transporting substances throughout the body.
This test helps assess nutritional status, detect liver or kidney disorders, and evaluate conditions that affect protein production or loss, such as chronic infections, inflammatory diseases, and multiple myeloma.
The test can be done alongside Albumin Test, Globulin Test, A/G Ratio, Liver Function Tests (LFTs), Kidney Function Tests, and Electrophoresis.
Patient Preparation
No special preparation needed.
Samples
1ml with a minimum volume of 0.7ml of serum or plasma collected in a Gel-barrier, red-top, or green top tube (lithium heparin). Avoid using EDTA, oxalate, or citrate plasma. Serum or plasma should be separated within four hours of sample collection. Store the sample at room temperature.
Reference Range
6.0-8.3g/dL
Results Turnaround
Within 24 hours of receipt of samples.
Diseases / Diagnostic indicators
Normal Total Protein Levels
Suggest that the body has a healthy balance of albumin and globulin, indicating normal liver, kidney, and nutritional status.
Low Total Protein Levels (Hypoproteinemia)
May indicate:
- Liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis, hepatitis)
- Kidney disease (e.g., nephrotic syndrome)
- Malnutrition or malabsorption (e.g., celiac disease)
- Severe burns or bleeding
- Heart failure
High Total Protein Levels (Hyperproteinemia)
Could be associated with:
- Chronic inflammation or infection
- Multiple myeloma or other blood cancers
- Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
- Dehydration (causing a concentration effect)
In either case, abnormal results usually prompt further testing (e.g., albumin/globulin ratio, protein electrophoresis) to determine the exact cause and guide treatment.