The total concentration of proteins in blood — primarily albumin and globulins.
What is it
Total protein measures the sum of albumin and globulins in circulation. It reflects synthetic liver function and immune activity.
Why it's measured
Total protein has been used in evaluating liver function, nutritional status, and certain immunologic conditions in research literature.
Reference range
Standard laboratory reference
6.0 – 8.3 g/dL
Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Your individual reference range will appear on your test report and should be interpreted by your physician in the context of your overall health profile.
What results may indicate
Elevated
Has been associated with chronic inflammation and certain blood disorders in research literature.
Lower
Has been associated with liver dysfunction, kidney protein loss, or malnutrition in research literature.
These associations are general. They are not a personal diagnosis or prediction. Discuss your individual results with your physician in the context of your full health profile.
When it's measured
Part of standard metabolic panels.
Related markers
Common questions
Total protein measures the sum of albumin and globulins in circulation. It reflects synthetic liver function and immune activity.
It's one of the markers used to build a fuller picture of your health. On its own it tells you very little, so it's most informative when reviewed alongside related markers.
It's measured from a standard blood draw at Quest or LabCorp. Total Protein is one of the markers included in the OPTML Apex Panel, where your results are read across systems and reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.
Reference ranges vary by laboratory, and a single value rarely tells the whole story. Review your result with a physician in the context of your other markers, symptoms, and history.
Total Protein is one signal among many. Answer a few quick questions and we’ll point you to the panel that fits.
Measured in
A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.
Explore the Apex Panel →This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and do not replace the advice of a healthcare provider. OPTML does not offer medical advice, a diagnosis, medical treatment, or any form of medical opinion.