Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A blood test that measures the levels of beta 2 and gamma globulin proteins in your blood using electrophoresis.
{"Measures specific protein levels (beta 2 and gamma globulins) in blood","Helps diagnose conditions affecting immune system and protein metabolism","Simple blood test with no special preparation needed","Results help doctors evaluate chronic infections, immune disorders, and certain cancers"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 44911-6
- Short code
- B2GG
- Synonyms
- Beta2+Gamma Glob SerPl Elph-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) with gel barrier; red-top tube without anticoagulant also acceptable. Plasma may be collected in heparinized (lithium or sodium heparin) or EDTA tubes
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.9
- Ref high
- 2.3
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 1 years
- Method
- electrophoresis
- CPT
- 86335
- SNOMED
- 104686000
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum or plasma. Minimum 0.5 mL required for analysis
- Stability
- Serum stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; 30 days at -20°C. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Plasma stability similar to serum when separated from cells within 2 hours of collection
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 200
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
A complete blood count (CBC) is a common blood test that measures the different cells in your blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Doctors often order it as part of a routine checkup or to help evaluate symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, fever, or unusual bruising.
The Beta 2 and Gamma Globulin test measures the amounts of two specific types of proteins in your blood serum. Beta 2 globulin includes proteins like transferrin, and gamma globulin mainly contains antibodies (immunoglobulins) that help fight infections. This test uses a technique called electrophoresis to separate and measure these proteins.
A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood, usually from a vein in your arm, using a thin needle. The procedure takes only a few minutes, and you may feel a brief sting when the needle goes in. Afterward, a small bandage is placed on the site, and you can return to your normal activities right away.
A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood is then sent to a laboratory where technicians use electrophoresis to separate the different protein types and measure the beta 2 and gamma globulin levels. You do not need to fast before this test in most cases.
Your results show whether your blood cell levels fall within the normal range. Values that are too high or too low can point to conditions such as anemia, infection, inflammation, or clotting problems. Your doctor will interpret the numbers together with your symptoms and medical history, so be sure to discuss your results with them before making any decisions about your care.
Results are usually reported as a percentage of total protein or as an absolute concentration. Your doctor will interpret the results based on your overall health, symptoms, and other test results. Abnormal levels may indicate various health conditions that require further investigation.
Reference range
Beta 2 globulin: 0.3-0.7 g/dL (varies by laboratory); Gamma globulin: 0.6-1.6 g/dL (varies by laboratory); Combined reference ranges are laboratory-specific and should be interpreted alongside total protein and albumin valuesN/A
No special preparation required. Specimen collection is not affected by recent food intake, medications, or supplements. Patients should maintain normal hydration unless otherwise specified by the ordering physician
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated gamma globulin levels may indicate chronic liver disease, chronic infections (such as hepatitis or tuberculosis), autoimmune disorders (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis), or certain blood cancers like multiple myeloma. Decreased gamma globulin levels may suggest immune deficiency conditions, protein-losing enteropathy, or certain kidney diseases.
Beta 2 globulin changes may relate to iron metabolism (as it includes transferrin), liver function, or certain inflammatory conditions. This test is often part of a complete protein electrophoresis panel and helps doctors diagnose and monitor various conditions affecting the immune system and protein metabolism.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before this test?
Are there any risks from the blood draw?
How long does it take to get results?
What should I tell my doctor before the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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.
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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy