When blood work is ordered, total protein level is a common measurement. This test measures the combined amount of proteins in your blood’s fluid portion, known as serum. An elevated total protein result indicates a potential underlying condition affecting your body’s protein balance. It is not a diagnosis itself, but a signal warranting further investigation.
Understanding Protein Levels
Total protein measured in a blood test refers to the sum of two main protein groups: albumin and globulin. These proteins are fundamental to many bodily functions, acting as building blocks for tissues, enzymes, and hormones. They are also crucial for transporting substances and maintaining fluid balance.
Albumin is the most abundant protein in blood plasma, primarily produced by the liver. Its main role involves maintaining oncotic pressure, preventing fluid from leaking out of blood vessels. Albumin also transports various molecules, including hormones, fatty acids, bilirubin, and certain medications.
Globulins constitute the other significant protein group, with diverse functions. Some globulins are produced by the liver, while others, particularly gamma globulins (immunoglobulins), are made by the immune system to fight infections and identify foreign substances. Globulins also participate in blood clotting and compound transport.
A typical normal range for total protein falls between 6.0 and 8.3 grams per deciliter (g/dL), though values can vary slightly among laboratories. When your total protein level exceeds this range, it is considered elevated, also known as hyperproteinemia. An elevated level suggests an increase in either albumin, globulin, or both, prompting a closer look at potential causes.
Common Causes of Elevated Protein
One frequent and often temporary reason for elevated total protein is dehydration. When the body lacks sufficient fluids, blood becomes more concentrated, leading to a higher proportion of proteins in the plasma. This common, non-alarming cause usually resolves by increasing fluid intake.
Beyond dehydration, persistent high protein levels often point to increased production of specific proteins, particularly globulins. Chronic inflammation or ongoing infections are common culprits, as the immune system ramps up antibody production to combat pathogens or inflammatory processes. Conditions like viral hepatitis, HIV, or other long-term infections can lead to this sustained immune response.
Certain autoimmune diseases, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, can also result in elevated globulin levels. In these conditions, the body produces an excess of antibodies, contributing to the overall increase in total protein. Examples include rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus.
Some bone marrow disorders, such as multiple myeloma or Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia, are characterized by an overproduction of a single type of immunoglobulin (monoclonal protein). This significant increase in one specific globulin can substantially elevate the total protein level. These conditions involve abnormal growth of plasma cells, responsible for antibody production.
Associated Health Conditions and Symptoms
While a high protein level typically does not cause direct symptoms, the underlying health conditions often manifest with various signs. If dehydration is the cause, symptoms like increased thirst, reduced urination, fatigue, or lightheadedness may be noticeable. These symptoms usually resolve once adequate hydration is restored.
When inflammation or infection drives protein elevation, a person might experience general symptoms such as fever, persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or localized pain. Chronic inflammatory conditions can lead to prolonged fatigue.
In cases where specific blood disorders, like multiple myeloma, are the cause, symptoms can be more distinct and progressive. These might include bone pain, particularly in the back or ribs, due to bone marrow involvement. Frequent infections, unexplained weakness, or numbness can also occur, reflecting the impact on the immune and nervous systems. Swelling (edema) may also be present, especially if kidney function is affected.
Symptoms related to liver or kidney issues, such as swelling in the ankles or abdomen, changes in urine output, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), can also be associated with conditions affecting protein levels. These symptoms indicate potential underlying issues, not direct consequences of the high protein level itself.
What to Do if Your Protein Level is High
Discovering an elevated protein level on a blood test can be concerning, but remember this finding is a marker, not a definitive diagnosis. The most important step is to consult with a healthcare professional. They can interpret your results within the context of your overall health, medical history, and any symptoms.
Your doctor may recommend further diagnostic tests to pinpoint the underlying cause. These could include serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP), which separates and measures different protein types to identify abnormal increases in specific globulins. Additional tests like kidney function, liver function, or inflammatory markers may also be ordered to assess organ health and detect ongoing inflammation or infection.
Self-diagnosis based on online information is not recommended, as causes of high protein levels are varied and require professional medical evaluation. Many conditions associated with elevated protein are manageable, especially when identified early. Following your doctor’s guidance and undergoing recommended follow-up tests are essential steps toward understanding and addressing the cause.