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Total Protein with Serum Albumin Electrophoresis Profile

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures your blood’s total protein levels and analyzes protein distribution in serum using electrophoresis, which helps assess protein balance and potential abnormalities like albumin deficiency or abnormal protein patterns.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose conditions affecting protein balance and identifies abnormal protein patterns in your blood."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
72565-5
Short code
CK BB CFr.DF SerPl Elph
Synonyms
CK BB CFr.DF SerPl Elph
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
22
Ref high
198
Critical range
7.2 N/A – 7.6 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
electrophoresis
CPT
82553
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate conditions such as kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or certain blood disorders. It can also help monitor protein levels in chronic diseases or after treatments like chemotherapy. Sometimes, it’s used to screen for conditions like nephrotic syndrome or multiple myeloma.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw if your provider specifies. Wear a comfortable shirt with sleeves rolled up. Bring any medications or questions to your appointment.

How the Test Is Performed

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The blood sample is then processed to separate serum and analyzed via electrophoresis to measure total protein and identify protein bands (including albumin).

Possible Results and Interpretation

Results show total protein concentration and the relative distribution of proteins (e.g., albumin, globulins). Low albumin or abnormal band patterns may indicate liver/kidney issues, infections, or inflammatory diseases. High protein levels could suggest dehydration or certain cancers.

Reference range

Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Total Protein & Albumin Electrophoresis

Frequently asked questions

What does a low total protein level mean?
A low total protein level may signal conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, kidney failure, or chronic infections. Albumin, a key protein, helps maintain fluid balance in your body, so low levels can lead to swelling (edema) or poor wound healing.
How does electrophoresis help diagnose conditions?
Electrophoresis reveals abnormal protein patterns, such as spiked bands (seen in multiple myeloma) or reduced albumin (common in liver/kidney disease). It can also detect unusual proteins linked to hereditary disorders or autoimmune conditions.
Can diet affect my protein test results?
Yes, diet can influence protein levels. High-protein diets may temporarily raise total protein, while low-protein diets could lower it. Avoid excessive alcohol or certain medications (e.g., diuretics) that may affect protein metabolism before testing.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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