Possible causes of high blood protein include:
- Amyloidosis (buildup of abnormal proteins in your organs)
- 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 laboratory finding uncovered while evaluating another condition or symptom. For instance, high blood protein is found in people who are dehydrated. However, the real problem is that the blood plasma is actually more concentrated.
Certain proteins in the blood may be elevated as your body fights an infection or some other 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 your 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 you fight disease.
- Regulating body functions.
- Building muscles.
- Transporting drugs and other substances throughout the body.
Causes shown here are commonly associated with this symptom. Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis.
- Total protein and albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio. American Association for Clinical Chemistry. https://www.testing.com/tests/total-protein-albumin-globulin-ag-ratio/. Accessed Oct. 28, 2022.
- Amyloidosis and kidney disease. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease/amyloidosis. Accessed Oct. 28, 2022.
- Monoclonal gammopathies of undetermined significance (MGUS). Merck Manual Professional Version. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/hematology-and-oncology/plasma-cell-disorders/monoclonal-gammopathy-of-undetermined-significance-mgus. Accessed Oct. 28, 2022.
- Laubach JP. Diagnosis of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Oct. 28, 2022.
- Blood basics. American Society of Hematology. https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/blood-basics. Accessed Oct. 28, 2022.