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Serum globulin mass concentration (electrophoresis-based)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 15, 2026

This test measures the total amount of globulin proteins in your blood serum, which are part of the larger protein family that includes albumin and other immune-related proteins.

Quick summary

["Globulins help support immunity and blood clotting, and their balance is important for overall health."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 15, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
104801-6
Short code
BETAGLB
Synonyms
B-Globulin SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube; plasma acceptable in lithium heparin or EDTA tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.7
Ref high
1.1
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–99 years
Method
Electrophoresis (Capillary Zone Electrophoresis or Gel Electrophoresis)
CPT
84165
SNOMED
313465003
Specimen volume
1.0 mL serum or plasma (minimum 0.5 mL)
Stability
Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
100
Lipemia max
200
Icterus max
40
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Are Globulins?

Globulins are a diverse group of proteins in your blood that include antibodies, transport proteins, and other immune and clotting factors. They help fight infections, regulate immune responses, and assist in blood clotting. Unlike albumin, globulins are not primarily involved in maintaining fluid balance in your body.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Doctors may order this test to evaluate immune function, detect conditions like chronic inflammation, infections, or certain cancers (e.g., multiple myeloma), or assess protein imbalances in blood disorders. It can also help monitor treatment responses in conditions affecting protein synthesis or breakdown.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The serum (liquid part of blood after clotting) is then analyzed using electrophoresis, a technique that separates proteins based on size and charge to estimate their concentrations.

What Does a Result Mean?

Results are not provided as a single numeric range because globulin levels can vary based on the specific protein subtypes measured. Instead, they are often interpreted in relation to albumin levels (to calculate albumin-globulin ratio) or compared to clinical context (e.g., symptoms, other test results, or medical history).

Reference range

0.7-1.1 g/dL (7.0-11.0 g/L); approximately 7-13% of total proteinN/A

Specimen: serum

No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not necessary.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Globulins play a key role in immune defense and blood health. Elevated globulin levels may suggest chronic infections, inflammation, or certain cancers, while low levels could indicate malnutrition, liver disease, or autoimmune conditions. The test is often used alongside albumin and other protein tests for a complete picture of blood protein status.

Short name

Globulin Levels (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

What causes changes in globulin levels?
Changes in globulin levels can result from a variety of factors, including chronic infections (like tuberculosis or hepatitis), autoimmune diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis), certain cancers (like multiple myeloma or lymphoma), liver or kidney disease, or malnutrition. Hormonal imbalances, pregnancy, and certain medications may also influence them.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency of this test depends on your medical condition and why it was ordered. If you have a chronic illness or are under treatment, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring. Otherwise, this test is usually not routine unless symptoms or other tests suggest a need for evaluation.
Can lifestyle changes affect globulin levels?
Yes, lifestyle factors such as diet (e.g., protein intake), hydration, exercise, and smoking can indirectly influence blood protein levels, including globulins. Maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding excessive alcohol may support overall protein health, but this test specifically measures current protein concentrations in your blood.
  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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy