Protein, Total Blood Work Test

A total protein test measures the amount of protein in your blood, including albumin and globulin. Here are some reasons why you may need to have your total protein levels tested:

To evaluate liver and kidney function: Total protein levels are often used as a part of a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) to evaluate liver and kidney function. High or low protein levels in the blood can be an indicator of liver or kidney disease.

To assess nutritional status: Protein is an essential nutrient that is necessary for building and repairing tissues in the body. Low levels of total protein in the blood can be a sign of malnutrition or other nutritional deficiencies.

To diagnose or monitor medical conditions: Total protein levels may be used to diagnose or monitor medical conditions such as multiple myeloma, autoimmune diseases, or infections.

To evaluate dehydration: Total protein levels may be used to evaluate dehydration, as dehydration can cause blood proteins to become more concentrated.

To monitor response to treatment: If you have a medical condition that affects protein levels, your healthcare provider may use total protein testing to monitor your response to treatment.

Overall, a total protein test can provide valuable information about your overall health and may be used to diagnose or monitor a variety of medical conditions. If you have concerns about your protein levels or overall health, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider to determine if testing is appropriate for you.