Complete Guide to Your Laboratory Test: What It Is, How It Is Performed, and What Your Results Mean
A blood test that separates and measures different types of proteins in your blood to help diagnose various medical conditions.
{"SPEP separates blood proteins to detect abnormal patterns","It helps diagnose conditions like multiple myeloma and liver disease","The test requires a simple blood draw","Results show five main protein fractions: albumin, alpha-1, alpha-2, beta, and gamma","Abnormal results may indicate infection, inflammation, or cancer"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 56154-8
- Short code
- SPE
- Synonyms
- Abn Prot MFr SerPl Elph
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum Separator Tube (SST/Gold top) or plain red top tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 55
- Ref high
- 65
- Critical range
- 7.2 N/A – 7.6 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- electrophoresis
- CPT
- 86355
- SNOMED
- 26958004
- Specimen volume
- 3-5 mL of serum
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24-48 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 50
- Lipemia max
- 300
- Icterus max
- 20
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
This test is a laboratory analysis that helps your healthcare provider learn more about how your body is working. It may be ordered during a routine checkup, to investigate specific symptoms you have been experiencing, or to monitor a known medical condition over time and see how well your treatment is working.
Serum Protein Electrophoresis (SPEP) is a laboratory test that separates and measures the different types of proteins in the liquid part of your blood (serum). The test uses an electrical current to separate protein molecules based on their size and electrical charge, producing a characteristic pattern that doctors can analyze.
The test is usually performed by collecting a small sample, such as blood, urine, or a swab, at a clinic, hospital, or laboratory. A trained professional will explain each step and answer your questions before the sample is taken and sent for analysis. The procedure is generally quick, causes little discomfort, and most people can return to their normal activities right away.
A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm. The blood is then sent to a laboratory where it is processed and analyzed using electrophoresis. You do not need to fast before this test, though your doctor may instruct you otherwise based on your specific situation.
Your results show measurements or findings that your healthcare provider compares with established reference ranges. Values within the normal range generally suggest typical body function, while values that are higher or lower than expected may point to an infection, inflammation, a problem with an organ, or another condition that needs closer evaluation. Always review your results with your healthcare provider, who can explain what they mean for your overall health and decide whether further testing or treatment is needed.
The test results show five main protein fractions: Albumin (the most abundant protein), Alpha-1 globulins, Alpha-2 globulins, Beta globulins, and Gamma globulins (which include antibodies). Each fraction's percentage and absolute value are measured, and abnormal patterns can indicate various health conditions.
Reference range
Protein fractions reported as percentage of total protein: Albumin 55-65%, Alpha-1 globulin 1-5%, Alpha-2 globulin 5-12%, Beta globulin 8-15%, Gamma globulin 10-20%. Total protein: 6.0-8.3 g/dL. Presence of abnormal monoclonal (M) band is considered pathologic.N/A
No fasting required. Avoid hemolysis. Inform laboratory of recent IV contrast administration or blood transfusions as these may interfere. Patient should be in stable medical condition.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
SPEP is primarily used to diagnose and monitor plasma cell disorders such as multiple myeloma, Waldenström's macroglobulinemia, and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). It can also help identify liver disease, kidney disease, chronic inflammatory conditions, and certain immune system disorders. The test is often ordered when a patient has unexplained symptoms like bone pain, fatigue, frequent infections, or abnormal calcium levels.
Frequently asked questions
Is the test painful?
How long does it take to get results?
Do I need to prepare for the test?
What does an abnormal result mean?
Will I need additional tests?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy