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

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

Measures the alpha-1 globulin fraction in blood using protein electrophoresis to help evaluate the circulating protein pattern.

Quick summary

["This test measures alpha-1 globulin as part of a serum or plasma protein electrophoresis panel."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
2866-2
Short code
Alpha1 Glob Snv Elph-mCnc
Synonyms
Alpha1 Glob Snv Elph-mCnc
Category
liver
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile tube
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
2-5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
300
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures the amount of alpha-1 globulin in your blood. Alpha-1 globulin is one of the protein fractions separated during serum or plasma protein electrophoresis.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered as part of a protein electrophoresis panel to evaluate unexplained changes in blood protein levels, such as an elevated or reduced globulin fraction.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is separated by electrophoresis so its major protein fractions can be measured. The alpha-1 globulin result is usually reviewed alongside the other fractions and your overall clinical findings.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually needed. Follow your clinician's instructions and tell the laboratory if you are pregnant or have recently received certain treatments, such as intravenous immunoglobulin, because these can affect protein electrophoresis results.

Reference range

Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A

Specimen: fluid

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 test as an alpha-1 antitrypsin test?
No. Alpha-1 globulin by electrophoresis measures a group of proteins as one fraction, while an alpha-1 antitrypsin test measures the concentration of that specific protein.
Why was my alpha-1 globulin result flagged as abnormal?
An abnormal result can reflect conditions involving inflammation, liver function, infection, inherited protein disorders, or recent medical treatments. Your clinician can interpret the finding using the other electrophoresis results and your health history.
Does this test require fasting?
Fasting is generally not required, but follow any specific instructions from your clinician or laboratory.
  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