Total protein

What it measures

Measures all proteins in serum, mainly albumin and globulins. Used as a general screen of nutrition, liver and kidney function, and as a first clue to paraproteins.

Specimen and preparation

• Specimen: Serum or lithium-heparin plasma
• Tube: Gold top
• Preparation: Avoid prolonged tourniquet and upright posture changes, which raise results.

Reference range

Reference ranges differ between laboratories, methods and populations. Always use the range printed on your own lab report.

Causes of high values

• Dehydration
• Multiple myeloma and other paraproteinemias
• Chronic infection or inflammation (e.g. HIV, hepatitis)
• Autoimmune disease

Causes of low values

• Malnutrition or malabsorption
• Liver cirrhosis
• Nephrotic syndrome
• Protein-losing enteropathy, burns
• Overhydration

Method

Biuret colorimetric method

Good to know

Plasma values are slightly higher than serum because of fibrinogen. A high total protein with a normal albumin suggests raised globulins.

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