Lab Test Interpretation
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Total protein levels in the blood can reveal important information about liver and kidney health, nutrition, and immune function. Managing abnormal levels is crucial to prevent complications related to dehydration, chronic diseases, or malnutrition.
Total protein is a measure of the overall amount of protein present in your blood. Proteins are essential for many functions in the body, such as building tissues, transporting substances, and fighting infections. The two main types of protein measured are albumin and globulin.
Albumin helps transport hormones and nutrients, while globulin plays a key role in the immune system. Checking total protein levels is often used to help diagnose various diseases or conditions, particularly those related to the liver, kidneys, or immune system.
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Total protein testing is commonly used to monitor general health and detect certain conditions. It may be recommended in the following cases:
Total protein is measured through a blood test, which is part of several broader tests, such as a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) or a basic metabolic panel (BMP). During the test, a small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Preparation for the Test
Normal total protein levels can vary slightly based on age and health condition. The general normal ranges are:
Note: The units of measurement and the normal ranges can differ depending on the laboratory and the specific methods used
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High total protein levels can indicate several underlying conditions. Elevated protein levels may suggest:
Low total protein levels can indicate that the body is not getting enough protein or that there are problems with protein absorption or loss. Possible causes include:
If your total protein levels are abnormal, you may need to consult different specialists depending on the underlying cause. Consider seeing:
This article was written by doctors from the Docus Medical Research team and reviewed by leading nephrology, gastroenterology, and immunology experts. We relied on academic studies, medical research, and publications from credible sources to ensure the information provided is accurate and trustworthy.
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