Bromocresol Purple Protein Electrophoresis (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures protein components in your blood using a technique called electrophoresis, which separates proteins based on size and charge. It helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, amyloidosis, or other disorders affecting blood proteins.
["Electrophoresis helps detect unusual protein distributions that could signal serious blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 85788-8
- Short code
- KPCG
- Synonyms
- blaKPC Bld Pos Ql NAA+n-prb
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Positive blood culture bottle (aerobic or anaerobic) submitted for molecular testing; do not subculture before testing
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- non-probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87653
- SNOMED
- 122451000221107
- Specimen volume
- 1-3 mL aliquot from positive blood culture bottle
- Stability
- Test within 8 hours of blood culture positivity; if delayed, stable at 2-8°C for up to 24 hours; frozen storage not recommended
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 1–6 hours
- Order
- routine
How the Test Works
A small amount of your blood (either serum or plasma) is placed in a gel. An electric current is applied, causing proteins to move toward the opposite charge. Different proteins separate into distinct bands, which are then stained with bromocresol purple to visualize their concentrations.
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, frequent infections, or swelling, or if they suspect conditions like multiple myeloma, monoclonal gammopathy, or other protein-related disorders.
Common Conditions Linked to Abnormal Results
Abnormal protein patterns on electrophoresis can signal conditions such as multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells), amyloidosis (a buildup of abnormal proteins in organs), or benign conditions like benign monoclonal gammopathy.
Sample Preparation
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw if your blood is drawn in the morning. Avoid strenuous activity or certain medications that could affect protein levels.
Reference range
Negative (blaKPC gene not detected). Positive indicates presence of blaKPC carbapenemase gene conferring carbapenem resistance.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antimicrobial therapy when clinically feasible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
BCP Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low result mean?
How long does it take to get results?
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