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

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

A urine protein electrophoresis test that estimates the proportion of total urinary protein in the alpha-1 globulin fraction.

Quick summary

["This test measures the alpha-1 globulin share of protein in your urine and may help evaluate certain patterns of urinary protein loss."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
17811-1
Short code
Alpha1 Glob ?Tm MFr Ur Elph
Synonyms
Alpha1 Glob ?Tm 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 urine protein electrophoresis to measure the proportion of total urinary protein classified as alpha-1 globulin. It is different from blood tests for alpha-1 antitrypsin.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order it as part of an evaluation of increased protein in the urine, unusual urine protein patterns, or possible kidney tubule dysfunction. It is usually interpreted with other urine and kidney-function tests.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is analyzed by electrophoresis, which separates urinary proteins into groups. The laboratory then estimates the fraction of total protein that falls into the alpha-1 globulin group.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's or laboratory's urine-collection instructions, including whether a first-morning or another timed collection is required. Collect and return the sample in the specified container, and tell the laboratory about any medications or recent illness that could affect the result.

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

Frequently asked questions

Does this test diagnose a specific kidney disease?
No. It is one part of a broader evaluation and usually needs to be considered alongside other urine tests, kidney-function tests, and your medical history.
Is this the same as an alpha-1 antitrypsin test?
No. This test measures a protein fraction in urine, while alpha-1 antitrypsin is usually measured in blood using an immunoassay.
What if my urine protein electrophoresis result is abnormal?
Your clinician may review related results and, if appropriate, recommend additional testing or follow-up. A single abnormal fraction does not by itself establish a diagnosis.
  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