Serum or Plasma Bromocresol Green Protein Binding Index
This test measures how well certain proteins in your blood bind with bromocresol green dye, which helps assess liver function and protein synthesis.
["This test helps doctors check liver health and protein balance in your bloodstream."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 7198-5
- Short code
- CELHRT
- Synonyms
- Celery BasoBnd Ab Qn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Sodium heparin (green-top) or EDTA (lavender-top) tube for whole blood basophil activation testing
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 1–99 years
- Method
- Basophil activation test (flow cytometry) or whole-blood histamine release assay following incubation with celery allergen extract
- CPT
- 86003
- SNOMED
- 419076005
- Specimen volume
- 5-10 mL of whole blood; minimum 3 mL
- Stability
- Specimen should be processed within 2-4 hours of collection. Do not refrigerate or freeze whole blood; maintain at room temperature (18-25°C).
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test evaluates the protein-binding capacity of your serum or plasma using bromocresol green dye. It indirectly reflects the functional capacity of your liver to produce and maintain proteins, such as albumin, which are essential for maintaining blood pressure and fluid balance in your body.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if they suspect liver disease, malnutrition, or other conditions affecting protein synthesis. It can also be part of routine liver function assessments or monitoring for chronic conditions like cirrhosis or kidney disease.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is then processed to separate serum (if drawn without anticoagulants) or plasma (if drawn with anticoagulants) for testing. The test measures the dye-binding capacity of proteins in this sample.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually required, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader liver function panel. Inform your doctor about any medications, supplements, or recent illnesses that could affect results.
Reference range
Negative: < reference threshold for celery-specific histamine release. Positive result indicates presence of celery-reactive basophils releasing histamine upon allergen challenge. Reference values vary by laboratory and assay methodology.N/A
No fasting required. Patients should discontinue antihistamines, corticosteroids, and other allergy medications for 5-7 days prior to testing if medically appropriate (consult ordering physician). Avoid recent exposure to celery before specimen collection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low results may indicate liver disease, malnutrition, or conditions that impair protein production, such as severe kidney disease or chronic inflammation. High results could suggest dehydration or other conditions affecting protein binding. This test is less commonly used today but remains valuable in specific diagnostic contexts, especially when combined with other liver function tests.
Short name
BCG Protein Binding Index
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Does this test require fasting?
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