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

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

Measures the amount of alpha-1 globulin in blood as part of serum protein electrophoresis and helps evaluate protein patterns affected by inflammation or liver disease.

Quick summary

["This test measures one group of blood proteins and is usually interpreted with the rest of your serum protein electrophoresis results."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
2865-4
Short code
Alpha1 Glob SerPl Elph-mCnc
Synonyms
Alpha1 Glob SerPl Elph-mCnc
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
44
Ref high
147
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 blood test measures alpha-1 globulin, a group of proteins that includes alpha-1 antitrypsin. It is usually reported as part of a serum protein electrophoresis, which separates the major protein groups in blood.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test as part of a broader evaluation of liver function, inflammation, infection, or an unusual blood protein pattern. It is also sometimes used to assess alpha-1 antitrypsin-related lung or liver concerns.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory separates the blood proteins using electrophoresis. The amount of alpha-1 globulin is then measured and interpreted along with the other protein fractions.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required. Follow any instructions from your healthcare professional, particularly if this test is being ordered as part of another procedure.

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 by serum protein electrophoresis

Frequently asked questions

Is alpha-1 globulin the same as alpha-1 antitrypsin?
No. Alpha-1 globulin is the measured protein fraction, while alpha-1 antitrypsin is a major protein within that fraction. The electrophoresis result is therefore not necessarily a direct measurement of alpha-1 antitrypsin.
What does an abnormal alpha-1 globulin result mean?
It may reflect inflammation, infection, liver disease, or an inherited protein condition, depending on whether the level is increased or decreased. Your clinician will interpret it alongside the other electrophoresis fractions and relevant tests.
Does this test require fasting?
Fasting is generally not required for this test. If it is part of a larger panel or your clinician has given specific preparation instructions, follow those instructions.
  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