Total protein measures albumin and globulins in your blood, reflecting liver health, nutrition, and hydration.
Total protein measures all the protein in your blood, mainly albumin plus a group of proteins called globulins. These proteins carry substances, fight infection, and help blood clot.
The result gives a broad picture of nutrition, liver function, and immune activity, and is usually split into albumin and globulin for more detail.
A low total protein can reflect poor nutrition, liver disease, or protein loss through the kidneys or gut. A high total protein can come from dehydration or from chronic inflammation and certain immune conditions.
On its own the number is broad, so it is read with the albumin to globulin ratio. A shift in that ratio is often more telling than the total.
Aniva reads your result against research-backed ranges, not just the lab's wide normal. The reference shown below is specific to this biomarker.
| Group | Serum total protein (SI) |
| Adults | ~64 to 83 g/L |
Ranges are guidance only and vary by lab and assay. Read your result against your own lab's reference interval, in line with DGKL practice.
Dehydration raises total protein, while a drip or lying down for a long time can lower it by dilution. A tourniquet left on too long during the draw can raise it. Pregnancy and some conditions shift the balance between albumin and globulin.
Best read with albumin and globulin (and the albumin to globulin ratio), and with liver enzymes when liver health is the question.
What does my total protein result mean? It reflects the combined levels of albumin and globulins. Your clinician will interpret it alongside albumin, A/G ratio, and other liver tests.
Do I need to fast for this test? No. Eating does not meaningfully change total protein for most people.
What can affect my results? Dehydration, IV fluids, pregnancy, intense exercise, acute illness, and some medicines can shift values.
How often should I test total protein? Usually during routine checkups or when monitoring known issues. Follow your clinician’s advice.
How long do results take? Results are usually ready in about 7 days.
What should I discuss with my clinician? Share symptoms, hydration status, medications, and supplements. Ask if follow-up tests like albumin or protein electrophoresis are needed.
One annual membership, 100+ biomarkers, every result explained in plain language with a personalized action plan and concierge guidance.
