High blood protein is usually the result of inflammation or infection. A blood test can determine the level and type of protein, and this may provide important clues about the underlying cause. Doctors can request such tests if they have reason to believe a patient's levels may be elevated, and high levels can also be discovered on routine workups. In all cases, the lab that does the analysis should provide a detailed breakdown along with reference levels so a doctor can determine where a patient falls within a range of results from the same lab, as each lab can be slightly different.
Chronic inflammation is a potential culprit behind high blood protein. Patients with arthritis and certain bone marrow diseases tend to have elevated protein levels because their immune systems work harder. Bone marrow diseases like amyloidosis and multiple myeloma are both associated with high blood protein, and can also cause bone pain, soreness, and fatigue. Some patients may also have protein in their urine if their kidneys are stressed by the ongoing inflammation or disease.
Infection can also be a cause. Infections force the immune system to go into overdrive, and this can elevate blood protein levels past the normal range. Chronic infections like hepatitis C and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) lead to high blood protein. Monitoring protein levels in patients with known infections can provide important information about how well they respond to treatment and whether additional or more aggressive treatment is necessary.
When a doctor finds high blood protein, the first step is usually to order some more tests to determine the cause. The lab can check for other evidence of infection or inflammation. The doctor may also interview the patient to collect information on risk factors and other symptoms that the patient may not realize are related. This information is critical for making a correct diagnosis, and patients should make sure to provide a detailed medical history.
Once the doctor knows more about the cause, she can recommend treatments. These may include medications and dietary changes. During the course of treatment, follow-up tests can monitor the blood protein levels to see if they drop. If they do not, it may be necessary to pursue more aggressive treatment options such as different medications or a combination drug regimen. It is important to receive treatment because persistent high protein levels can strain the kidneys and lead to health complications for the patient.