Serum Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood using electrophoresis, a technique that separates proteins based on size and electrical charge.
["Helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may signal conditions like multiple myeloma or liver disease."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 93978-5
- Short code
- C4F
- Synonyms
- C4.functional SerPl-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red top tube; plasma acceptable in EDTA or heparin tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 20
- Ref high
- 100
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) / Liposome Immunolysis / Hemolytic assay
- CPT
- 86161
- SNOMED
- 39579001
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL serum or plasma
- Stability
- Serum/plasma stable for 2 hours at room temperature; 1 day at 2-8°C; 2-4 weeks at -20°C or below. 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 distinct bands corresponding to albumin, alpha, beta, and gamma globulins. Each band represents a group of proteins with similar electrical charges, helping to detect imbalances that may indicate underlying health issues.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to investigate symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swelling, or to monitor conditions such as multiple myeloma, lymphoma, or liver/kidney disease. It can also help diagnose immune system disorders or certain types of anemia.
Sample Preparation and Testing Process
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The serum (liquid part after blood clotting) is then analyzed using electrophoresis to separate proteins. Results are interpreted by comparing the pattern to normal ranges.
Common Conditions Evaluated
This test is often used to detect abnormalities in protein levels, such as high or low albumin, or unusual spikes in gamma globulins, which may signal conditions like multiple myeloma, chronic inflammation, or autoimmune diseases.
Reference range
Reference ranges vary by methodology and laboratory. Typical functional C4 activity ranges approximately 20-100 U/mL or expressed as percentage of normal (70-140%). Consult laboratory-specific reference interval.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not necessary.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This qualitative test provides critical information about protein composition in the blood, aiding in the diagnosis and management of diseases affecting protein synthesis, storage, or breakdown. Abnormal patterns can guide further testing or treatment plans, such as bone marrow exams or additional bloodwork.
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a serum protein electrophoresis test show?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy