Protein, Total, Plasma
The total protein, plasma test measures the combined amount of protein circulating in a plasma sample, including fibrinogen. It can be ordered through Celio Health.
About this test
Total protein in plasma is the sum of the major proteins that circulate in the blood, including fibrinogen, the protein involved in clotting. Quest analyzes a 1 mL plasma sample, collected in a lithium heparin (green-top) tube, using spectrophotometry to arrive at a single total protein value.
Clinicians use total protein measurements as part of the evaluation of a variety of conditions involving the liver, kidney or bone marrow, as well as other metabolic or nutritional disorders. Because the result is a sum rather than a breakdown of individual proteins, it is read alongside other findings rather than by itself.
Who might consider this test?
- A single total protein value is one piece of that picture.
Test details
| Quest code | 90844 |
|---|---|
| Methodology | Spectrophotometry |
| Sample type | 1 mL plasma |
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
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Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports one value: total protein in plasma, calculated as the sum of the major plasma proteins including fibrinogen. This is distinct from a total protein test run on serum, which does not include fibrinogen, since serum is the fluid left after clotting removes it.
Order online and a physician order is included — no doctor's visit and no insurance needed. Your sample is collected at a Quest Diagnostics patient service center.
Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a licensed clinician who knows your health history. This page is information about a test, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does the total protein, plasma test measure?
It measures the total amount of protein circulating in a plasma sample, calculated as the sum of all major plasma proteins, including fibrinogen.
How is the sample collected?
The test uses a 1 mL plasma sample, collected in a lithium heparin (green-top) tube, at a routine blood draw.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No preparation instructions are listed for this test, though people follow any instructions their ordering clinician provides.
Why might a clinician order a total protein, plasma test?
Quest lists total protein measurements as used in the evaluation of a variety of conditions involving the liver, kidney or bone marrow, as well as other metabolic or nutritional disorders.
How is this different from a total protein test on serum?
This version measures protein in plasma, which includes fibrinogen. A separate serum-based total protein test is also available and does not include fibrinogen.
How much is a Protein, Total, Plasma test?
$15, paid once at checkout. The price includes the physician's order this test requires and sample collection at a Quest patient service center.