Abnprotserplelphmcnc
A blood test that separates and measures different proteins in your blood to detect abnormal protein patterns that may indicate certain diseases.
{"This test looks for abnormal protein bands in your blood that may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma","A small blood sample is taken from your arm and sent to a laboratory for analysis","Abnormal results may require additional testing to determine the exact cause"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 100914-1
- Short code
- SPE, PACE, SERP, PROTAB
- Synonyms
- Abn Prot SerPl Elph-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST/Gel tube) or plain red top tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 55
- Ref high
- 68
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 18 years
- Method
- electrophoresis
- CPT
- 86320
- SNOMED
- 365761009, 78019000, 148279004
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum minimum
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
- Hemolysis max
- 50
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 20
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
Serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) is a laboratory test that separates the different proteins in your blood based on their electrical charge. The test can identify abnormal patterns or "bands" of proteins that may indicate certain diseases, particularly those affecting plasma cells in the bone marrow.
Why do I need this test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms such as unexplained fatigue, bone pain, frequent infections, or abnormal blood test results. It helps diagnose and monitor conditions including multiple myeloma, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), Waldenström macroglobulinemia, and certain immune disorders.
How is the test performed?
A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is placed in a special gel and an electrical current is applied. This separates the proteins into different zones, allowing technicians to identify any abnormal bands. The procedure takes only a few minutes and is generally well-tolerated.
How to prepare for the test?
You typically do not need to fast before this test unless your doctor instructs otherwise. Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, as some drugs may affect test results. It is helpful to wear a short-sleeved shirt so the blood draw is easier.
What do the results mean?
The test looks for five main protein types: albumin, alpha-1, alpha-2, beta, and gamma globulins. An abnormal band in any of these areas may indicate a problem. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your symptoms, medical history, and other test results. Additional tests such as immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE) or bone marrow biopsy may be needed to confirm a diagnosis.
Reference range
No abnormal protein bands detected. Normal distribution: albumin 55-68%, alpha-1 globulin 1-5%, alpha-2 globulin 6-13%, beta globulin 8-15%, gamma globulin 8-20%N/A
No fasting required. Inform laboratory of any recent contrast media administration, recent blood transfusions, or immunotherapy drugs that may affect results
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is the blood draw painful?
How long does it take to get results?
Does an abnormal result always mean cancer?
Will I need to repeat this test?
Are there any risks from the blood test?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy