Serum or Plasma Substance Concentration by Immunoassay (Bromocresol Green Dye Binding)
This test measures the concentration of a protein in your blood using a dye-binding method with bromocresol green. It helps assess protein levels, often used to evaluate liver function or nutritional status.
["This test helps doctors check how well your liver or kidneys are working or if you have enough protein in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 7231-4
- Short code
- CLAD HR
- Synonyms
- C herbarum BasoBnd Ab Qn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Heparinized (green-top) tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 5–99 years
- Method
- Immunoassay (basophil histamine release assay)
- CPT
- 86003
- SNOMED
- 39512009
- Specimen volume
- 5-10 mL whole blood
- Stability
- Process within 4 hours of collection; do not refrigerate. Sample should be maintained at room temperature (20-25°C).
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The bromocresol green (BCG) dye binds to specific proteins in your blood, such as albumin. The test quantifies how much dye is bound, reflecting your protein concentration. This method is sensitive and commonly used for general protein screening.
Why It’s Done
Doctors may order this test to monitor liver function, detect liver disease, or assess conditions like malnutrition, kidney problems, or certain infections. It can also help track protein levels in chronic diseases.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in the arm. The blood is then separated into serum (after clotting) or plasma (after anticoagulant use) for testing. The specimen is sent to a lab for processing and analysis.
Common Conditions Monitored
Elevated or low protein levels may signal liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis), kidney disease, malnutrition, or inflammatory conditions. This test is not specific to a single disease but provides a general overview of protein status.
Reference range
Negative or undetectable histamine release in non-atopic individuals; positive results indicate IgE-mediated sensitization to Cladosporium herbarum.N/A
No fasting required. Patients should discontinue antihistamines, corticosteroids, and other medications that may interfere with allergic response as directed by their physician. Avoid exposure to the allergen prior to testing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance of this test includes evaluating albumin levels, which are critical for maintaining blood pressure, wound healing, and immune function. Abnormal results may prompt further testing for underlying causes like liver dysfunction or protein-losing syndromes.
Short name
BCG Protein Assay (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What causes protein levels to change in this test?
How soon will I get my results?
Can I eat or drink 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