High blood protein

Definition

High blood protein is an increase in the concentration of protein in the bloodstream. The medical term for high blood protein is hyperproteinemia. High blood protein is not a specific disease or condition, but it might indicate that you have a disease.

High blood protein rarely causes symptoms on its own. But sometimes it is found when you have blood tests done for a separate issue or symptom.

Causes

Possible causes of high blood protein include:

• Amyloidosis
• Dehydration
• Hepatitis B
• Hepatitis C
• HIV/AIDS
• Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS)
• Multiple myeloma

A high-protein diet doesn't cause high blood protein.

High blood protein is not a specific disease or condition. It's usually a lab test result found while checking another condition or symptom. For instance, high blood protein is found in people who are dehydrated. However, the real cause is that the blood plasma is more concentrated.

Certain proteins in the blood may be high as your body fights an infection or inflammation. People with certain bone marrow diseases, such as multiple myeloma, may have high blood protein levels before they show any other symptoms.

The role of proteins

Proteins are large, complicated molecules that are vital to the function of all cells and tissues. They are made in many places throughout the body and circulate in the blood.

Proteins take a variety of forms, such as albumin, antibodies and enzymes, and have many different functions, including:

• Helping fight disease.
• Regulating body functions.
• Building muscles.
• Transporting medicines and other substances throughout the body.

When to see a doctor

If a healthcare professional discovers high blood protein during a test, more tests can help find if there is a condition that is causing it.

A total protein test may be done. Other, more-specific tests, including serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP), can help find the exact source, such as the liver or bone marrow. These tests also can identify the specific protein type involved in your high blood protein levels. Your healthcare professional may order an SPEP if a bone marrow disease is suspected.