Serum Bromocresol Green Protein Binding Capacity (BCG Protein Binding)
This test measures how well certain proteins in your blood bind to a dye called bromocresol green. It helps assess liver function and protein metabolism.
["This test checks liver health and protein balance in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 7218-1
- Short code
- CHERRYHR
- Synonyms
- Cherry BasoBnd Ab Qn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Heparinized (sodium heparin) whole blood tube, green-top; EDTA tube acceptable for some methodologies. Collect sufficient volume to prevent clotting.
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 5
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 2 years
- Method
- Basophil activation test (flow cytometry) or histamine release assay using whole blood challenged with cherry extract; histamine quantified via ELISA or fluorometric assay
- CPT
- 86003
- SNOMED
- 39512008
- Specimen volume
- 5-10 mL whole blood; pediatric minimum 3 mL
- Stability
- Process within 2-4 hours of collection at room temperature (18-25°C). Do not refrigerate or freeze. Sample must be tested while basophils remain viable.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Your doctor may order this test as part of a routine checkup, to help investigate symptoms you have been experiencing, or to monitor an ongoing health condition. The results give your care team important information about how your body is functioning and help guide decisions about your treatment plan.
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes), unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or if they suspect liver disease, malnutrition, or other conditions affecting protein levels.
Before the test, your healthcare provider will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. In most cases, you can eat and drink normally and keep taking your regular medications unless your doctor gives you different instructions. Be sure to mention any medicines, supplements, or health conditions that could affect the results.
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. The process is quick and typically painless.
Your results will show whether the measured values fall within the normal range expected for someone of your age and health status. Results that are higher or lower than normal can point to many different conditions, but they do not always mean something is seriously wrong. Your doctor will review the findings with you, explain what they mean in context, and recommend any follow-up testing or treatment if needed.
Lower than expected results may indicate liver disease, malnutrition, or conditions that reduce protein synthesis. Higher results could suggest certain liver disorders or protein overload. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
This type of test is often used in connection with conditions such as infections, inflammation, anemia, thyroid disorders, diabetes, and liver or kidney problems. It may also be part of the evaluation for heart disease and certain immune-related conditions. Because many health issues can influence the results, your doctor will interpret them alongside your symptoms and medical history.
Abnormal results can signal liver conditions like cirrhosis, hepatitis, or protein-losing disorders, as well as malnutrition or conditions affecting protein metabolism.
Reference range
Negative: <5% histamine release or below assay-specific cutoff. Positive result indicates cherry-specific sensitization. Reference values vary by laboratory methodology.N/A
No fasting required. Patients should discontinue antihistamines (H1 and H2 blockers) for 5-7 days prior to testing as these suppress histamine release. Leukotriene modifiers and corticosteroids may also affect results and should be reviewed with the ordering physician. Avoid high-allergen meals immediately before testing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is primarily used as a screening or confirmatory tool for liver function and protein metabolism disorders. It complements other tests like liver enzymes or albumin levels but isn’t a standalone diagnostic for most conditions.
Short name
BCG Protein Binding
Frequently asked questions
What does a low BCG protein binding result mean?
Can diet affect this test?
Is fasting required for 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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy