Serum level of total protein is commonly used for nutrition assessment of visceral protein stores. Proteins being the building blocks of all cells and tissues, are important for body growth, development, and health. They form the structural part of most organs and make up enzymes and hormones that regulate body functions. A total serum protein test measures the total amounts of two major groups of proteins in the blood: albumin and globulin. In addition to nutritional assessment, the test also compares the amount of albumin with globulin (A/G ratio) that provide clue to the cause of the change in protein levels.

Total protein levels may decrease in conditions that:

• Interfere with production of albumin or globulin proteins, such as malnutrition or severe liver disease
• Increase the breakdown or loss of protein, such as kidney disease (nephrotic syndrome)
• Increase or expand the volume of plasma, the liquid part of blood (diluting the blood), such as congestive heart failure.

Total protein levels may increase with conditions that cause:

• Abnormally high production of protein (e.g., inflammatory disorders, multiple myeloma)
• Dehydration