Description
The total protein test measures the total amount of two classes of proteins found in the fluid portion of your blood. These are albumin and globulin. Proteins are important parts of all cells and tissues. Albumin helps prevent fluid from leaking out of blood vessels.
Total protein measurements can tell your doctor about whether you are malnourished and about kidney disease, liver disease, and many other conditions. If total protein levels are abnormal, further tests must be done to find which particular protein is abnormal, so that a diagnosis can be made.
Total protein may be measured along with several other tests to help diagnosis of a disease if you have symptoms that suggest a liver or kidney disorder, or have fluid collecting in your tissues.
The total plasma protein level is the sum of all circulating proteins, including fibrinogen, that are major components of blood. Total protein measurements are useful in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of diseases involving the liver, kidney, or bone marrow as well as other metabolic or nutritional disorders.
