Included with every panel
Baseline labs come free with any panel you build.
Metabolism & organs
Total protein test
Total protein in blood; can reflect nutrition, liver synthesis, and inflammation. Included with every panel.
At a glance
In about 5 days
Most results are ready in about 5 days. Some specialty markers can take up to 21 days.
Check before your draw
This marker has no preparation tag, but it can still need preparation. Contact us before your draw if you’re not sure.
Walk in at Quest
Your lab order arrives by email. Most Quest locations take walk-ins, so bring it with a photo ID.
What it measures
Total protein adds up the main kinds of protein in your blood, albumin and globulins. Together they fight infection, carry nutrients and keep fluid inside your blood vessels.
Why it matters for women
Globulins include antibodies, so long-term inflammation, as with lupus or Sjögren’s, an autoimmune condition that can cause dry eyes and mouth, can push total protein up. Both conditions mostly affect women. In pregnancy, a larger blood volume can lower total protein a little.
You might check it if…
- you’ve noticed swelling, weight loss or poor appetite
- you live with lupus, Sjögren’s or another autoimmune condition
- a doctor is checking your liver or kidneys
- a past protein result came back high or low
What your result may mean
High Total protein: what it may mean
High total protein may point to dehydration, chronic inflammation, or a monoclonal gammopathy, when one type of antibody builds up, as in multiple myeloma. Autoimmune conditions such as lupus or Sjögren’s, which mostly affect women, can push antibodies and total protein up. Long-term infections can do the same. Thirst and dark urine can go with dehydration, while tiredness or bone pain may point elsewhere, and some people may feel well. A clinician may compare albumin with globulins and may look at a serum protein electrophoresis test.
Low Total protein: what it may mean
Low total protein may occur with malnutrition, malabsorption, liver disease, protein loss through the kidneys, or burns. A larger blood volume in pregnancy can lower it a little, which can be normal. Getting a lot of IV fluid before a blood draw can also dilute your blood. Swelling in your legs or belly and tiredness can appear, though a small dip may cause no symptoms. Albumin, liver tests and a urine protein check may help a clinician find where the protein is going.
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These notes provide context and do not diagnose a condition. Not yet available in NY, NJ, RI, HI, ND, SD or WV.