Mediki
Total protein blood test: what your result means
Total protein measures combined levels of major blood proteins, mainly albumin and globulins.
- Category
- Liver function
- Standard unit
- g/L
- Reported in
- g/L, mg/mL, g/dL, g%, g/100ml
What does high total protein mean?
Higher values may suggest dehydration or increased immune protein production. What counts as high depends on the reference range printed on your lab report, because ranges differ between laboratories.
What does low total protein mean?
Lower values may suggest poor protein status, losses, or reduced synthesis. What counts as low depends on the reference range printed on your lab report, because ranges differ between laboratories.
Total protein units and conversion
Mediki shows total protein in g/L. Labs may report it in other units; Mediki converts them automatically so results from different labs line up on one chart.
mg/mL is numerically the same as g/L, so no conversion is needed.
| Unit on your report | Convert to g/L | Convert back |
|---|---|---|
| g/dL, g%, g/100ml | 1 g/dL = 10 g/L | 1 g/L = 0.1 g/dL |
Convert a value from your report with the blood test unit converter.
Why track total protein over time?
A single total protein result is a snapshot. Comparing it with your earlier tests shows whether a value is stable, slowly drifting, or responding to a change in treatment or lifestyle, which is often more useful than one number on its own.
Read our guide on how to read blood test results to understand reference ranges, flags and units.
Following total protein as part of a panel? See the liver function test tracker.
Track your total protein results in one chart
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Medical disclaimer: This page is general information, not medical advice. Reference ranges differ between laboratories, and only a doctor can interpret your results in the context of your health.