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Alpha-1 Globulin Fraction, Urine — Electrophoresis, Mass Fraction

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

A urine protein electrophoresis test that measures the fraction of urine protein made up of alpha-1 globulin as part of the overall urine protein pattern.

Quick summary

["This test shows how much of the protein in your urine is alpha-1 globulin."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13990-7
Short code
Alpha1 Glob MFr Ur Elph
Synonyms
Alpha1 Glob MFr Ur Elph
Category
liver
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
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
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test uses electrophoresis to separate the proteins in a urine sample and determine the proportion represented by alpha-1 globulin. It is usually interpreted alongside the total urine protein and the other protein fractions.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order it to investigate unexplained protein in the urine, monitor certain kidney conditions, or assess how protein is being lost through the kidneys. It can also help evaluate abnormal alpha-1 globulin levels identified in blood testing.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is collected and the laboratory separates its proteins using electrophoresis. The laboratory then reports the alpha-1 globulin fraction relative to the total urine protein.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's urine collection instructions, including whether a first-morning or timed specimen is needed. Tell your clinician if you have a urinary tract infection, fever, heavy exercise, menstruation, or other conditions that may temporarily affect the urine protein pattern.

Reference range

Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A

Specimen: urine

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

Urine alpha-1 globulin fraction electrophoresis

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as an alpha-1 antitrypsin blood test?
No. Alpha-1 antitrypsin and alpha-1 globulin are related terms, but this test specifically measures the alpha-1 globulin fraction in urine. Your clinician may order blood testing at the same time.
Does a high result mean I have a kidney disease?
Not necessarily. A high fraction can have several causes, including inflammation, liver-related changes, infection, or kidney conditions, so it must be interpreted with the rest of the urinalysis and your clinical history.
Do I need to fast for this test?
Fasting is generally not required, but urine collection instructions should be followed exactly. If a timed collection is requested, record when collection began and ended and bring the full sample as directed.
  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