Bromocresol Purple Protein Electrophoresis (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures protein distribution in your blood using a technique called electrophoresis with the Bromocresol Purple dye. It helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may suggest conditions like multiple myeloma, amyloidosis, or other disorders affecting blood proteins.
["This test helps doctors diagnose and monitor blood protein disorders by showing how proteins separate in your bloodstream."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 105017-8
- Short code
- KPC2
- Synonyms
- blaKPC-2 Islt/Spm Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof, screw-cap container or appropriate transport medium (e.g., Copan ESwab, blood culture bottles for blood specimens)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- molgen
- CPT
- 87798
- SNOMED
- 416089003
- Specimen volume
- 1-5 mL for blood/serum; varies by specimen type (tissue, fluid, or isolate)
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 24-48 hours; Frozen (-70°C): extended storage acceptable for molecular testing
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
Electrophoresis separates blood proteins based on size and charge. The Bromocresol Purple dye binds to proteins, creating distinct bands that reflect different protein types. This pattern can reveal shifts in protein levels that may indicate health issues.
Why It’s Done
Doctors use this test to investigate symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or swollen glands. It’s also part of evaluating conditions like chronic kidney disease, infections, or cancers that alter protein production.
Sample Collection
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. This test does not require fasting.
Common Conditions Monitored
Abnormal protein patterns on this test may signal conditions such as multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells), amyloidosis (a buildup of abnormal proteins), or other systemic diseases affecting protein metabolism.
Reference range
Negative (blaKPC-2 gene not detected)N/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antimicrobial therapy whenever possible. For bloodstream infections, collect blood cultures aseptically before antibiotic administration.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test plays a key role in diagnosing and managing disorders where protein composition in the blood is disrupted. It provides critical information for treatment planning and disease progression tracking, especially in cases involving plasma cell disorders or systemic protein storage diseases.
Short name
BCP Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a ‘band pattern’ on this test mean?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I eat or drink 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