Serum or plasma protein electrophoresis (qualitative)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood using electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins based on size and charge.
["Electrophoresis helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or other disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 15048-2
- Short code
- CK BB CFr SerPl Elph
- Synonyms
- CK BB CFr 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
What Is Protein Electrophoresis Used For?
Protein electrophoresis is primarily used to diagnose and monitor conditions affecting protein levels in the blood. It can help detect unusual protein bands that might suggest diseases like multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells), certain liver diseases, or hereditary disorders like alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn, and the serum or plasma is separated. The sample is then placed in an electric field, causing proteins to move toward opposite charges. A gel or paper medium captures the separation, creating distinct bands that represent different protein types.
Preparation and Sample Collection
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a light snack before your blood draw, but avoid heavy meals. The sample is typically collected from a vein in your arm.
What Are Common Conditions Monitored?
This test is often used to screen for conditions like multiple myeloma, where abnormal proteins (e.g., monoclonal gammopathy) may appear. It can also help evaluate liver function, detect hereditary protein disorders, or assess conditions like nephrotic syndrome.
Reference range
Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What do the different bands on the electrophoresis result mean?
How long does it take to 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy