Yashoda Hospitals > Diagnostics > Total Protein Test

What is a Total Protein Test?

The Total Protein Test, also known as total serum protein, is a measure of total protein in the blood. There are two main types of protein in the blood, namely:

  • Albumin: This protein stops the blood from leaking out of blood vessels. It helps in the circulation of hormones, medicines, vitamins, and other vital substances within the body. 
  • Globulin: It protects the body against infection and helps in the transportation of nutrients in the body.

A  constant ratio exists between these proteins in the blood. Any alteration of this ratio indicates underlying pathological conditions such as kidney problems and liver malfunction. This test measures the ratio between the two called the albumin/globulin ratio.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    A Total Protein Test is a part of a routine checkup to detect underlying disease conditions. It is a measure of total protein in the blood. 

    Protein is an essential component of the body involved in many vital processes. Any alterations in the level of different proteins can indicate a grave underlying condition.

    The pathologist tests the amount of albumin in the blood to the globulin level after a blood test followed by biochemical analysis. They then calculate the A/G ratio. 

    Suppose the results don’t reflect the standard ratio of 6-8 g/dl. In that case, it indicates serious underlying conditions and requires further tests for a confirmed diagnosis.

    The doctor might advise a Total Protein Test if you experience: 

    • Unexpected weight loss
    • Fatigue
    • Oedema or swelling in legs, ankles, or abdomen
    • Loss of appetite
    • Jaundice 
    • Blood in urine

    You may also undergo the test as a part of a routine comprehensive checkup.

    During a Total Protein Test, the lab personnel draw blood samples for biochemical analysis from the veins located in the elbow or hand. They wipe the area with alcohol-soaked cotton before collecting the blood in a vial with the help of a syringe.

    Many medicines can interfere with the test. Hence, you must inform the doctor if you are on any medication.

    High blood protein, referred to as hyperproteinemia, is the increase of protein concentration in blood. Hyperproteinemia is not a disease by itself, but it indicates an underlying illness. It does not show any symptoms but gets detected during other tests.

    The total protein is the ratio of albumin to globulin found in the liquid portion of the blood. Testing the total proteins, also known as total serum protein, is a routine health checkup. 

    Doctors recommend this test when you complain of unexplained weight loss, serious liver and kidney problems, or fatigue.

    Amyloid is a protein. If its concentration is high in an organ, it causes the organ to malfunction. This condition is called amyloidosis. It can affect kidneys, liver, spleen, stomach, nervous system or intestine.

    High protein in the blood indicates infection in the body as the body fights against infection.

    • Certain types of cancer such as myeloma, Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, etc.
    • Viral infections such as hepatitis C, hepatitis B, HIV, etc.
    • Kidney or liver disease

    Elevated total protein test indicates infection or inflammation. Other common causes include

    •     Chronic (long-term) inflammation or inflammatory disorders.
    • Amyloidosis(abnormal buildup of proteins in blood)
    • Infections caused by viruses, such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C or HIV/AIDS
    • Dehydration
    • Severe liver or kidney disease.
    • Multiple myeloma
    • Certain cancers, like multiple myeloma, sarcoidosis, and Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia.

    High protein is not a disease by itself or any specific type of condition. High levels of certain proteins in the blood indicate that the body is fighting an infection or inflammation. 

    • What does low protein in a blood test mean? 

    Low protein in blood indicates kidney disease, liver problem, or malnutrition wherein the body does not have enough calories, minerals, and vitamins for its maintenance. 

    Malabsorption syndrome is a condition in which the small intestine cannot absorb sufficient nutrients from food. Malabsorption syndrome includes Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, chronic pancreatitis.

     

     Book an appointment or Get a free second opinion from our experts at Yashoda Hospitals today.