Total Protein

What is Total Protein Test?

A total protein test is done to measure the total globulin and albumin amount in your body. It is performed to check kidney or liver disease. Protein is the building block of every cell. It is an essential macronutrient required for the maintenance and growth of tissues. Protein is made from more than twenty building blocks called amino acids. Millions of people, especially young children, don't get the required amount of protein due to food insecurity. Protein deficiency can lead to loss of muscle mass, growth failure, weakening of the respiratory system and heart, and decreased immunity.  

A total protein test is also performed if you have kidney or liver dysfunction and symptoms of malnutrition. The test examines protein in the urine or the blood's liquid portion, which is called serum. A serum total protein test can be used to identify the amount of globulin and albumin in the serum portion of the blood. A urine total protein test measures the amount of protein in the urine. 

What is the Purpose of the Total Protein Test? 

A total protein test measures the amount of protein in your blood. A low protein level can be an indication that your liver is not functioning optimally. Having a lower or increased level of proteins can lead to fatigue, inflammatory disease, and unexpected weight loss. The total protein test can be helpful in diagnosing kidney and liver diseases and other health conditions.  

In a few cases, the A/G ratio and total protein measurement are included in broader tests, like the comprehensive metabolic panel or liver panel that offers detailed information about possible health conditions.  

What Does Total Protein Test Diagnose? 

A total protein test measures the combined level of all the blood proteins in the liquid portion of blood (serum or plasma). It can also be done as part of a comprehensive metabolic panel or liver panel that is performed during a routine doctor visit if you have a higher chance of developing liver or kidney disease. A total protein test can also be done to monitor kidney or liver health if you had an abnormal test result or were previously diagnosed with an underlying condition.  

Why Do You Need a Total Protein Test? 

You need a total protein test to measure the level of protein in your plasma or serum. It is also used to check for malnutrition status. This test is also performed to follow your condition in response to treatment. This test is often used to check liver and kidney diseases. The doctor may order this test if you have the following symptoms: 

• Abdominal discomfort 

• Unexplained swelling 

• Urinary changes 

• Fatigue and jaundice 

• Vomiting 

• Spider-like blood vessels on your skin 

• Fluid build up in the feet and legs 

• Loss of appetite 

This test can also be done to monitor for side effects of medicines that potentially impact the liver or kidney. Doctors may also use this test to diagnose various diseases that affect protein levels. 

Preparation and Procedure Required for a Total Protein Test 

No special preparations are required for a total protein test. You're recommended to drink enough water before the test, as dehydration may affect the test results. A few medications can also affect the accuracy of the test results. So, you must inform your doctor beforehand if you're taking any medications. Follow all the instructions of your doctor and technician while undergoing this test. 

During a total protein test, the technician will draw blood from a vein on the back of your hand or inside your elbow. Before drawing the blood, they tie a band around the upper arm so that the veins are easier to find. They also disinfect the entry site and insert the needle into your vein. Blood from the vein gets into a collection tube. After taking the blood sample, the technician will remove the band and the needle and put a bandage over the wound. The blood sample will be sent to the lab for further analysis.  

Understanding Total Protein Test Results 

Total protein is usually calculated in grams of protein per decilitre of blood. The total protein result and a normal reference range are available in your test report. You must consider the total protein levels in accordance with the reference range in your report. The reference range can vary based on the lab. 

Here's how to understand the protein component of the test results: 

• Total Protein: This measures the amount of protein in your blood. Normal ranges can vary based on age and gender, but a typical range is 5.5-9.0 g/dL. 

• Albumin: This measures the level of albumin in your blood. Albumin is a protein made by the liver that helps maintain the osmotic pressure of the blood. Normal ranges can vary based on age and gender, but a typical range is 2.0-3.5 g/dL. 

• Globulin: This measures the level of globulin in your blood. Globulins are a group of proteins that help transport substances in the blood and support the immune system. Normal ranges can vary based on age and gender, but a typical range is 2.0-3.5 g/dL. 

• Albumin/Globulin (A/G) Ratio: This compares the albumin and globulin levels in your blood. A high A/G ratio may indicate liver disease, while a low A/G ratio may indicate immune disorders or inflammation. 

• Peripheral Smear: This is the microscopic examination of a small sample of blood cells to evaluate the size, shape, and appearance of your blood cells. Abnormalities in the appearance of blood cells can indicate various medical conditions. 

Abnormal results 

Abnormally high protein levels may indicate chronic inflammation, HIV, hepatitis C or B. It can also indicate bone marrow disorders like Waldenstrom's disease or multiple myeloma. 

Abnormally low protein levels may indicate extensive burns, malnutrition, kidney disorder, liver disorder, bleeding, and celiac disease. It can also indicate agammaglobulinemia, an inherited condition in which your blood doesn't have a globulin type.