Serum total protein

The traditional method for measuring total protein uses the biuret reagent, but other chemical methods such as dye-binding and refractometry are now available. The measurement is usually performed on automated analysers along with other laboratory tests.

Interpretation

The reference range for total protein is typically 60-80g/L. (It is also sometimes reported as "6.0-8.0g/dl"), but this may vary depending on the method of analysis.

• Concentrations below the reference range usually reflect low albumin concentration, for instance in liver disease or acute infection. Rarely, low total protein may be a sign of immunodeficiency.
• Concentrations above the reference range are found in paraproteinaemia, Hodgkin's lymphoma, leukaemia or any condition causing an increase in immunoglobulins. Total protein is also commonly elevated in dehydration and C677T gene mutation.