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Alpha-2 Globulin, Serum/Plasma — Electrophoresis, Mass Fraction

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

Measures the alpha-2 globulin fraction of total serum or plasma proteins using electrophoresis. This test is generally part of a protein electrophoresis panel.

Quick summary

["The alpha-2 globulin fraction can change with inflammation, liver conditions, nutritional problems, and some immune or plasma-cell disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13981-6
Short code
Alpha2 Glob MFr SerPl Elph
Synonyms
Alpha2 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 blood test measures the proportion, or mass fraction, of total protein that is alpha-2 globulin. It is usually measured as part of serum or plasma protein electrophoresis, which separates proteins into several groups.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order it to evaluate unexplained changes in protein levels, investigate swelling, fatigue, or weight loss, or help assess liver, immune, nutritional, and plasma-cell conditions.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory separates the serum or plasma proteins using electrophoresis. The laboratory then calculates the percentage or fraction of protein in the alpha-2 globulin region.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required. Follow any fasting or medication instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory.

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-2 Globulin Fraction

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as an alpha-2 antitrypsin test?
No. This test measures the overall alpha-2 globulin fraction by protein electrophoresis. An alpha-2 antitrypsin test measures a specific protein within that fraction and is used for different reasons.
Does a high or low result confirm a diagnosis?
No. An abnormal result is nonspecific and may have several causes. Your clinician will interpret it alongside other laboratory findings, symptoms, and medical history.
Does the test require fasting?
Fasting is generally not required, but your clinician may give specific instructions. Tell the laboratory if you are pregnant or have recently received certain treatments, such as intravenous immunoglobulin.
  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