Have you used a home testing kit for a medical diagnosis?

COVID-19 RATs are an example of these types of tests but we are interested in the many others on the market.

The University of Wollongong is conducting a small study about them and we'd like to hear from you if you have used one or considered using one.

Simply complete a short survey at:
https://uow.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eeodpzn8lgSsAbI

From here, we may invite you to take part in a paid interview.

For more information, contact Dr Patti Shih: pshih@uow.edu.au
 

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At a glance

Also known as

TP

Why get tested?

Total protein is mostly measured as part of a liver function test profile, and is not often requested in isolation. It can be used, with measurement of albumin, to calculate ‘globulins’ which may indicate activation or depletion of the immune system. So total protein measurement helps the doctor detect certain liver and kidney disorders as well as other diseases.

When to get tested?

If your doctor thinks that you have symptoms of a liver or kidney disorder

Sample required?

A blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm
 

What is being tested?

The total protein test measures the concentration of all the proteins in the plasma portion of your blood. Proteins are important building blocks of all cells and tissues; they are important for body growth and health. Total protein measures the combined amount of two types of proteins, albumin and globulin. Albumin moves many small molecules through the blood but its main purpose is to keep fluid from leaking out of blood vessels, while globulin proteins include enzymes, antibodies and more than 500 other proteins.

How is the sample collected for testing?

A blood sample is collected by needle from a vein.
 

The Test

How is it used?

Total protein measurements can reflect someone's nutritional status, the presence of kidney disease and liver disease, as well as many other conditions. If total protein is abnormal, further tests may be needed to identify which protein fraction is abnormal, so that a specific diagnosis can be made.

When is it requested?

Total protein is measured along with several other tests to provide information if you have symptoms that suggest a liver or kidney disorder, or to investigate the cause of abnormal pooling of fluid in tissue (oedema). It will also be requested as part of the investigation of multiple myeloma.

What does the test result mean?

If total protein results are abnormal further tests will be required to identify the cause. Low total protein levels can suggest a liver disorder (the liver is an important producer of many plasma proteins), a kidney disorder (proteins may be lost from the circulation into the urine due to a kidney disorder) or a disorder in which protein is not digested or absorbed properly. Low total protein concentrations may sometimes be seen in patients with deficiency of the immune system. More specific tests, such as albumin and liver enzyme tests must be performed to make an accurate diagnosis.

Mildly higher total protein levels can be due to dehydration or infection and inflammation and high total protein levels may be due to some types of blood cancer that lead to an accumulation of an abnormal protein (such as multiple myeloma) or to long-term liver disease.

Reference Intervals

Adult
60- 80 g/L

The reference intervals shown above are known as a harmonised reference interval. This means that eventually all laboratories in Australia will eventually use this same interval so wherever your sample is tested, the reference interval should be the one shown above. Laboratories are in the process of adopting these harmonised intervals so it is possible that the intervals shown on the report of your results for this test may be slightly different until this change is fully adopted. More information can be found under Reference Intervals – An Overview.
 

Is there anything else I should know?

Prolonged application of a tourniquet or standing during blood collection can increase total protein levels.

Many medications may affect total protein levels, including oestrogens, steroids, and oral contraceptives. Tell your healthcare practitioner all the prescription or over-the-counter medications, supplements, or illicit substances you may be taking.

Common Questions

Can I test for protein levels at home?

No, there is no home test available.

Last Review Date: January 11, 2023


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