Serum Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood using a technique called electrophoresis. It helps identify abnormalities in protein distribution that may suggest conditions like liver disease, kidney problems, or certain cancers.
["This test helps doctors diagnose and monitor conditions affecting protein levels in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 99412-9
- Short code
- BETAGLOB
- Synonyms
- B-Globulin SerPl IFE-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube; plasma may be collected in lithium heparin or EDTA tubes
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 6
- Ref high
- 11
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- immunofixation
- CPT
- 86334
- SNOMED
- 11576002
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum or plasma
- 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
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
Electrophoresis separates blood proteins into fractions based on their size and electrical charge. The test typically shows bands representing albumin, alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins. Abnormal patterns may indicate conditions such as multiple myeloma, liver disease, or inflammatory disorders.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swelling, or if they suspect conditions like chronic liver disease, kidney disease, or certain cancers. It’s also used to monitor treatment progress for these conditions.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The serum (liquid part of blood without clots) is then analyzed using electrophoresis to separate proteins. Results are typically reported as qualitative bands or patterns rather than specific numeric values.
What Are Common Findings?
Normal results show a distinct pattern with clear bands for each protein fraction. Abnormal findings may include an increased or decreased band in certain areas, which could indicate underlying health issues. For example, a spike in gamma-globulins might suggest multiple myeloma or other immune-related disorders.
Reference range
Beta globulin fraction: 6.0-11.0 g/L (0.6-1.1 g/dL); Normal beta-1 and beta-2 fractions without monoclonal bands. Reference ranges vary by laboratory and electrophoresis method.N/A
No fasting required. Patient should be well-hydrated. Avoid recent blood transfusions when possible, as they may affect protein electrophoresis patterns.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
What does it mean if my test shows an abnormal protein pattern?
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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