Placental alpha-1-microglobulin (Placental Protein 13) in serum/plasma
This test measures a protein produced by the placenta during pregnancy, which can help assess placental function and detect potential complications like preeclampsia or intrauterine growth restriction.
["Placental alpha-1-microglobulin helps monitor pregnancy health and placental health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 19166-8
- Short code
- CEA
- Synonyms
- CEA SerPl-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top vacutainer tube; plasma acceptable in lithium heparin or EDTA tubes
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 3
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–99 years
- Method
- Immunoassay (chemiluminescent immunoassay, electrochemiluminescence immunoassay, or enzyme immunoassay)
- CPT
- 82378
- SNOMED
- 395695008
- Specimen volume
- 1.0 mL serum or plasma (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 6 months
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 25
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why is this test done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like high blood pressure, protein in urine, or signs of poor fetal growth. It can also be used to screen for conditions affecting the placenta, such as placental insufficiency or preeclampsia, especially in high-risk pregnancies.
What does a result mean?
Elevated levels may indicate placental issues, while lower levels could suggest placental problems or other pregnancy-related complications. Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your overall health and pregnancy history.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate the serum or plasma, which is sent to a lab for analysis using immunoassay methods to detect the placental protein.
What preparation is needed?
No special preparation is typically required, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or foods that could interfere with results. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
Reference range
Non-smokers: <3.0 ng/mL; Smokers: <5.0 ng/mLN/A
No fasting required. Avoid smoking for at least 24 hours prior to specimen collection as tobacco use elevates CEA levels. Inform clinician of any medications, recent surgeries, or radioisotope exposure.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
PP13 (Placental Protein 13)
Frequently asked questions
What are the normal ranges?
Can this test be done at home?
How soon will I get results?
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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy