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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 total serum or plasma proteins using electrophoresis, often as part of a protein electrophoresis panel.

Quick summary

["This test helps evaluate the distribution of blood proteins and may contribute to identifying inflammation, liver problems, or a monoclonal protein."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13978-2
Short code
Alpha1 Glob MFr SerPl Elph
Synonyms
Alpha1 Glob MFr SerPl 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?

This test measures the amount of alpha-1 globulin relative to the total protein in your blood. It is usually reported as part of serum or plasma protein electrophoresis.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order it to evaluate suspected inflammation, liver or kidney disease, nutritional problems, or an abnormal monoclonal protein. It is often interpreted along with albumin and the other protein fractions.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is separated into protein fractions by electrophoresis. The laboratory then estimates the amount of alpha-1 globulin relative to the total protein in the sample.

How do I prepare for the test?

This test usually requires no special preparation. Follow any instructions from your healthcare provider, and tell the laboratory if you are pregnant or have recently received a blood transfusion, as these can affect protein testing.

Reference range

Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

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 test as alpha-1 antitrypsin?
No. The alpha-1 globulin fraction is a broad electrophoretic protein measurement and may include several proteins, including alpha-1 antitrypsin. A specific alpha-1 antitrypsin test is different.
Does a high or low result diagnose a specific condition?
No. An abnormal result is nonspecific and must be considered alongside the other protein fractions, examination findings, and other laboratory tests.
Why was my test performed on serum or plasma?
Serum and plasma are commonly used for protein electrophoresis because they contain most of the proteins being measured. The laboratory may also use the result as part of a larger panel to look for systemic conditions.
  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