Total protein sums albumin and all the globulins circulating in plasma, so it covers transport proteins, clotting factors, complement and antibodies together. It reflects the balance between production, mostly by the liver and by immune cells, and loss through the kidneys or the gut. On its own it is a coarse figure, useful mainly as the denominator from which the globulin fraction is worked out.
No readings for this marker yet.
Raised values most often reflect dehydration or a sustained increase in immunoglobulins, whether from chronic infection, chronic inflammation or a disorder of plasma cells. Lowered values point most often toward reduced synthesis in liver disease, protein loss through the kidneys or bowel, malnutrition or malabsorption. Because a fall in albumin can be masked by a rise in globulins and the reverse, the total is rarely conclusive by itself and any persistent shift is worth repeating and discussing with a doctor.
Hydration, prolonged standing before the draw and a tight or long-held tourniquet all move the result by concentrating plasma, and it drops during pregnancy. It is interpreted first alongside albumin, which separates the two fractions, and then with bilirubin, ALT, AST, GGT and alkaline phosphatase when the liver is in question. On semaglutide it is sometimes tracked because reduced intake during weight loss can lower protein status.
Reference ranges are general adult values and depend on lab, assay, age and sex. For orientation, not diagnosis — discuss results with your doctor.