What this marker measures
Total protein is usually broken down into albumin and globulin fractions; the albumin-to-globulin (A/G) ratio provides additional diagnostic information.
High or low: what it can mean
High Total Protein
Elevated total protein can be caused by dehydration or by excess immunoglobulin production (as occurs in some immune and blood conditions).
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Low Total Protein
Low total protein may reflect malnutrition, liver disease (reduced synthesis), kidney disease (increased protein loss), or malabsorption.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Total Protein?
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Total protein measures the combined concentration of all proteins in the blood, primarily albumin and globulins. It reflects both nutritional status and immune function.
What does Total Protein measure?
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Total protein is usually broken down into albumin and globulin fractions; the albumin-to-globulin (A/G) ratio provides additional diagnostic information.
What does high Total Protein mean?
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Elevated total protein can be caused by dehydration or by excess immunoglobulin production (as occurs in some immune and blood conditions).
What does low Total Protein mean?
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Low total protein may reflect malnutrition, liver disease (reduced synthesis), kidney disease (increased protein loss), or malabsorption.
Related biomarkers
Editorial note
LabTestly explains lab markers using plain-English educational content. Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and should be interpreted with a clinician.
Educational content · Editorially reviewed for clarity · Last updated
Common sources used for lab-test education
Not medical advice
This page is for general understanding only and does not replace medical advice from your clinician. Reference ranges can vary by laboratory, age, sex, pregnancy status, medications, and clinical context.