Protein, Total, Fluid

Container Type = Random Urine

Container Type

Non-CSF - For CSF see Protein, CSF

Test ID LAB196
EPIC ORDER PROTEIN TOTAL
CPT Code(s) 84157
Group/Individual Test Group
Laboratory Core Laboratory
Tube Station Routine: 30; STAT: 888
Specimen Routine: 1 mL fluid; Sterile Container; No Preservatives; See Comments
Micro: 200 µL fluid
Stability Room Temperature: 8 hours
Refrigerated: 3 days
Frozen: 6 months
Availability Routine: 24 hrs/day
STAT: Yes
Turnaround Time Routine: 2 Hours
STAT: 1 Hour
Reference Range Normal: Undefined
Comments:
  • Provide fluid type and source.
  • The reference range for this body fluid has not been established.  The test result must be integrated into the clinical context for interpretation. This test was developed, and its performance characteristics determined by the Core Laboratories of the McLendon Clinical Laboratories, UNC Health.  This test has not been cleared or approved by the FDA.  The laboratory is regulated under CAP and CLIA as qualified to perform high-complexity testing.  This test is to be used for clinical purposes and should not be regarded as investigational or for research:
    • Peritoneal fluid Total Protein <3 g/dL may indicate transudates while fluid Total Protein >3 g/dL may indicate exudates.  Serum ascites albumin gradient measurement is now preferred. 
    • A pleural fluid/serum ratio >0.5 suggests an exudate.  Pleural effusions related to Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia and multiple myeloma typically have protein concentrations from 7.0-8.0 g/dL

Reviewed by J. Carr on December 31, 2025

UNC Hospitals
McLendon Clinical Laboratories
101 Manning Drive
Chapel Hill, NC 27514