Beta2globmfrserplelph
A blood test that measures the level of beta-2 globulin protein in your blood using electrophoresis technique.
{"Beta-2 globulin is a type of protein in your blood that helps fight infections and transport substances","This test helps diagnose liver disease, kidney disease, and certain immune disorders","The test requires a simple blood draw, and fasting may be recommended before the test","Abnormal results may indicate various health conditions that need further evaluation","Results are typically available within a few days"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 32733-8
- Short code
- B2GLOB
- Synonyms
- Beta2 Glob MFr SerPl Elph
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) preferred; red-top plain tube acceptable. For plasma, use lithium heparin or EDTA tube.
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 2.3
- Ref high
- 4.9
- Critical range
- 7.2 N/A – 7.6 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–999 years
- Method
- electrophoresis
- CPT
- 84165 (Protein electrophoresis, serum); 84155 (Protein, total)
- SNOMED
- 104686001
- Specimen volume
- 1 mL serum or plasma (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 200
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Beta-2 Globulin test is part of a broader test called serum protein electrophoresis (SPE). This test separates the different types of proteins in your blood based on their electrical charge. Beta-2 globulin is one of the five main protein fractions in blood, along with albumin, alpha-1, alpha-2, and gamma globulins. The beta-2 fraction contains important proteins like transferrin (which carries iron), complement proteins (part of the immune system), and some antibodies.
Why is this test done?
Your doctor may order this test to evaluate your overall health status, especially if you have symptoms related to liver or kidney disease. It helps doctors identify abnormal patterns of protein production in the blood, which can indicate various conditions such as liver cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome (kidney disease), multiple myeloma (a type of blood cancer), chronic inflammatory diseases, or malnutrition. The test may also be used to monitor the progression of certain diseases or the effectiveness of treatment.
How to prepare for the test
For this test, you may need to fast (not eat or drink anything except water) for 8-12 hours before the blood draw, as instructed by your healthcare provider. Certain medications can affect test results, so inform your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. It is important to follow your doctor's specific instructions regarding preparation.
What happens during the test?
A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. You may feel a brief pinch or sting when the needle is inserted. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory where it undergoes electrophoresis to separate and measure the different protein fractions, including beta-2 globulin. The entire process takes only a few minutes, and you can resume your normal activities afterward.
Are there any risks?
The risks associated with this test are minimal and similar to any standard blood draw. You may experience slight bruising, bleeding, or dizziness at the puncture site. In rare cases, infection or excessive bleeding may occur. These risks are generally minor and temporary.
Reference range
Beta 2 globulin: 2.3-4.9% of total protein; corresponding to approximately 0.17-0.36 g/dL relative to total protein. Beta 2 fraction includes complement components (C3, C4), beta-2 microglobulin, and fibrinogen (in plasma).N/A
No fasting required. However, recent blood transfusion, plasma infusion, or vaccination (within 6 weeks) may affect results. For plasma specimens, the beta-2 fraction will include fibrinogen and may appear elevated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated beta-2 globulin levels may indicate conditions such as nephrotic syndrome (kidney disease causing protein loss), liver cirrhosis, certain inflammatory diseases, or some types of lymphoma. Decreased levels may be seen in malnutrition, liver failure, or conditions that cause protein loss. Since beta-2 globulin includes transferrin, changes may also reflect iron metabolism disorders. Your doctor will interpret your results in the context of your overall health, other test results, and symptoms to determine if further testing or treatment is needed.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before this test?
How long does it take to get results?
What do abnormal results mean?
Can this test diagnose cancer?
Is the test painful?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy