Serum Albumin Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the distribution of protein fractions in your blood serum using electrophoresis, helping assess conditions affecting protein balance.
["Electrophoresis helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may signal underlying health issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 19732-7
- Short code
- CATALBIgE
- Synonyms
- Cat Serum Alb IgE Qn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 0.35
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Immunoassay (Fluorescent Enzyme Immunoassay or Chemiluminescent Immunoassay)
- CPT
- 86003
- SNOMED
- 395148005
- Specimen volume
- 1 mL serum
- Stability
- Stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; for longer storage, freeze at -20°C or below for up to 3 months. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Albumin Electrophoresis Used For?
Electrophoresis separates blood proteins into distinct bands based on size and charge. This can reveal whether certain proteins (like albumin) are present in expected or unusual amounts, which may indicate conditions like liver disease, kidney problems, or certain cancers. It’s often used alongside other tests to diagnose or monitor these conditions.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from your arm. The serum portion is then placed in an electrophoresis gel and subjected to an electric current. Proteins move toward the opposite charge, creating visible bands that are analyzed for patterns.
Preparation and Timeline
No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised depending on your doctor’s instructions. Results typically take 1–3 business days to be ready.
What Are Common Findings?
Abnormal patterns may show reduced albumin levels (hypoalbuminemia) or unusual protein bands, which can signal conditions like malnutrition, chronic illness, or hereditary protein disorders. Normal results indicate balanced protein distribution.
Reference range
Reference range varies by laboratory; generally reported in kU/L or IU/mL with values <0.35 kU/L considered negative or undetectable for cat serum albumin-specific IgE antibodiesN/A
No fasting required. Patient should inform clinician of all current medications, including antihistamines, as these may affect IgE test results. Avoid recent allergen exposure documentation prior to collection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Albumin Electrophoresis (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What does a low or high albumin level mean?
Can I get this test at home?
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