Alpha-1 Globulin, Fluid — Electrophoresis, Mass Fraction
Electrophoresis measures the alpha-1 globulin fraction in a fluid sample. It helps assess the protein pattern and may guide follow-up testing.
["This test reports the proportion of alpha-1 globulin proteins in a fluid sample using electrophoresis."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17812-9
- Short code
- Alpha1 Glob MFr Fld Elph
- Synonyms
- Alpha1 Glob MFr Fld Elph
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- 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
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
Alpha-1 globulin is a region of the blood protein pattern that contains several proteins, including alpha-1 antitrypsin. Electrophoresis separates the proteins in the specimen into groups and estimates the fraction of the total protein in the alpha-1 group.
Why might I need this test?
This measurement may be included when a clinician is evaluating protein abnormalities, liver disease, inflammation, or an unexpected protein pattern. It can also help determine whether more specific testing, such as an alpha-1 antitrypsin measurement, is appropriate.
How is the test performed?
The laboratory applies an electric field to a prepared sample, allowing the proteins to separate into characteristic groups. The relative amount of protein in the alpha-1 globulin group is then reported as a mass fraction. This result is usually interpreted alongside the other protein fractions and the rest of the laboratory panel.
How do I prepare for the test?
No special preparation is usually required for routine protein electrophoresis when the specimen is blood. Follow the instructions provided for the specific fluid and collection time, and tell the healthcare professional if you are pregnant or have a known liver, kidney, or inflammatory condition.
Reference range
Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A
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 fraction
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as an alpha-1 antitrypsin test?
What does a high or low result mean?
Do I need to fast before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy