Serum/plasma protein electrophoresis with bromocresol purple staining
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, separated by size and charge, using a special dye to highlight protein bands.
["Helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may signal conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or other disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2007-3
- Short code
- CA15-3
- Synonyms
- Cancer Ag15-3 SerPl Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 31.3
- Critical range
- 0.5 N/A – —
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–99 years
- Method
- Immunoassay (chemiluminescent or electrochemiluminescent)
- CPT
- 86300
- SNOMED
- 76738-9
- Specimen volume
- 1 mL serum
- Stability
- Stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; 3 months at -20°C
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Proteins Are Measured?
Electrophoresis separates proteins into fractions based on their electrical charge and size. Key bands often include albumin (fast-moving), alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins (slowest). Abnormal spikes or bands may indicate conditions like monoclonal gammopathy or chronic inflammation.
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting protein production, such as kidney disease, liver disorders, or cancers like multiple myeloma. It’s also used to check for protein abnormalities in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or infections.
Sample Preparation and Processing
A blood sample is drawn and processed to separate serum or plasma. The sample is then applied to a gel and subjected to an electric current, causing proteins to migrate toward the opposite charge. The bromocresol purple dye binds to proteins, creating visible bands after staining.
Interpreting Results
Results are compared to a reference pattern. Abnormal patterns (e.g., a prominent spike in one band, smearing, or altered band intensity) may require further testing or clinical correlation.
Reference range
< 31.3 U/mL (non-cancer reference); values vary by assay manufacturerN/A
No fasting required. Sample should be collected before biopsy or surgical procedures when possible to avoid false elevations.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis (BCP)
Frequently asked questions
What Might Abnormal Results Indicate?
How Often Is This Test Recommended?
Can Diet or Medications Affect 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy