Bromocresol Green Protein Electrophoresis (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures protein distribution in your blood using a technique called electrophoresis, with a specific dye (bromocresol green) to help identify patterns of protein concentration.
["This test helps assess protein balance in your blood, often used to diagnose conditions affecting protein levels or distribution."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 7181-1
- Short code
- CRRHR
- Synonyms
- Carrot BasoBnd Ab Qn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Heparinized (green-top) blood collection tube for basophil preservation; EDTA tube for plasma
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 1–99 years
- Method
- Basophil histamine release assay (flow cytometry or fluorometric method)
- CPT
- 86003
- SNOMED
- 395130001
- Specimen volume
- 5-10 mL whole blood
- Stability
- Process within 2 hours of collection; specimens may be refrigerated at 2-8°C for up to 24 hours with appropriate basophil preservation buffer
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
Electrophoresis separates blood proteins based on size and charge, allowing for visual identification of different protein fractions. Bromocresol green binds to proteins, helping distinguish between albumin and globulin fractions, which can indicate shifts in protein composition.
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like swelling, unexplained weight loss, or signs of liver, kidney, or immune system disorders. It can also help monitor conditions like nephrotic syndrome, multiple myeloma, or chronic liver disease.
Common Uses and Conditions
This test is particularly useful for identifying abnormal protein patterns, such as low albumin (which may signal malnutrition or kidney disease) or high globulin levels (which could indicate inflammation or immune disorders).
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in the arm. The serum or plasma is then separated and analyzed using electrophoresis with bromocresol green dye to visualize protein bands.
Reference range
Negative: < baseline histamine release; Positive: elevated histamine release above control thresholdN/A
No fasting required. Patient should avoid antihistamine medications for 5-7 days prior to testing and discontinue oral corticosteroids as directed by physician. Inform provider of all current medications.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
BCG Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a bromocresol green electrophoresis test tell me about my health?
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.
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