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Total Protein Blood Test: What Your Results Mean

Total protein measures the combined amount of albumin and globulins in your blood. Albumin is made by the liver and maintains fluid balance, while globulins include immune proteins (immunoglobulins) and transport proteins. Together, total protein reflects your liver function, immune status, and nutritional state.

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Normal Range

6.3 – 8.2 g/dL

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Unit

g/dL

What Your Results Mean

Normal

A normal total protein level indicates healthy liver protein production, a functioning immune system, and adequate nutrition. Your body is maintaining the right balance of albumin and globulins to support key physiological processes.

High

High total protein can be caused by dehydration, chronic infections, or conditions that increase globulin production such as multiple myeloma or chronic liver disease. A detailed protein electrophoresis test is often needed to interpret an elevated result.

Low

Low total protein suggests protein loss or reduced production due to liver disease, kidney disease, malabsorption syndromes, malnutrition, or prolonged illness. It may cause fluid retention, muscle weakness, and poor immune response.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does low total protein mean? expand_more
Low total protein usually indicates the liver is not producing enough protein, the kidneys are losing protein through urine, dietary intake is insufficient, or absorption in the gut is impaired. All of these require further investigation.
What does high total protein mean? expand_more
High total protein is most commonly caused by dehydration. However, persistently elevated levels may indicate an overproduction of globulins, as seen in conditions like multiple myeloma or chronic infection, and should be evaluated with additional tests.
What is the normal total protein range? expand_more
The normal range for total protein is 6.3 to 8.2 g/dL, though reference intervals may vary slightly by laboratory.
What is the difference between albumin and total protein? expand_more
Total protein is the sum of albumin and globulins. Albumin is made by the liver and tested separately. Globulins include immune antibodies and other transport proteins. Measuring both gives a more complete picture of protein health.
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