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Alpha-1 Globulin, Serum/Plasma — Electrophoresis, Mass Fraction

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

Measures the alpha-1 globulin fraction of proteins in blood using electrophoresis to help evaluate protein patterns and possible liver, kidney, or inflammatory conditions.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess the alpha-1 portion of blood proteins as part of a broader protein evaluation."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13972-5
Short code
Alpha1 Glob MFr CSF Elph
Synonyms
Alpha1 Glob MFr CSF Elph
Category
liver
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
44
Ref high
147
Critical range
7.2 N/A – 7.6 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
electrophoresis
CPT
84075
SNOMED
27550007
Specimen volume
1-2 mL
Stability
Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
Hemolysis max
200
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

Alpha-1 globulin is a group of proteins that includes acute-phase proteins such as alpha-1 antitrypsin. This test measures the relative amount of the alpha-1 fraction in blood proteins using electrophoresis.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test as part of a serum or plasma protein electrophoresis to evaluate an abnormal protein pattern or investigate inflammation, liver disease, kidney disease, or other causes of changes in blood proteins.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is separated into different protein fractions using electrophoresis. The laboratory measures the alpha-1 globulin fraction and usually reports it along with the other protein fractions for your clinician to interpret.

How do I prepare for the test?

This blood test generally does not require fasting or special preparation. Follow any instructions from your healthcare professional, and tell the laboratory if you are pregnant or have received a blood transfusion recently.

Reference range

Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A

Specimen: csf

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Alpha-1 Globulin by Electrophoresis

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as an alpha-1 antitrypsin test?
No. Alpha-1 globulin is a broader protein fraction that includes alpha-1 antitrypsin, but it does not measure that protein specifically. A separate alpha-1 antitrypsin test may be needed if your clinician is evaluating a suspected deficiency.
Does an abnormal result diagnose a specific disease?
No. An abnormal alpha-1 globulin result is nonspecific and must be considered with the other protein fractions, symptoms, and medical history. Your clinician may recommend follow-up tests based on the overall pattern.
What if I have a recent illness or infection?
Inflammation or infection can temporarily change protein levels, including the alpha-1 globulin fraction. Your clinician may repeat the test after the acute illness has resolved if that would help with interpretation.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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