Protein Electrophoresis on Serum/Plasma (Qualitative or Quantitative)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, including albumin and globulins, to help identify abnormalities in protein levels.
["Protein electrophoresis helps diagnose conditions like kidney disease, liver disorders, or certain types of cancers."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 74966-3
- Short code
- Deprecated APAP Trough SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Deprecated APAP Trough SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- 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 Proteins Are Measured?
Electrophoresis separates blood proteins based on their electrical charge and size. Key proteins detected include albumin, alpha, beta, and gamma globulins. These proteins play roles in maintaining fluid balance, immune function, and transport of substances in the blood.
Why Is This Test Done?
A protein electrophoresis may be ordered to investigate symptoms like swelling, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or signs of organ dysfunction. It can also help monitor conditions such as multiple myeloma, lymphoma, or kidney disease.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The serum or plasma is then separated and placed in a gel. An electric current is applied to separate proteins by size and charge. The results are analyzed to identify patterns or abnormalities.
What Are Common Findings?
Abnormal patterns may show increased or decreased levels of specific proteins. For example, a spike in gamma globulins might suggest multiple myeloma, while low albumin could indicate liver or kidney problems.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is crucial for diagnosing and managing conditions affecting protein synthesis, immune function, or fluid balance. It helps clinicians track disease progression and response to treatment by providing detailed information about protein composition in the blood.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a protein electrophoresis test tell me about my health?
How often should I get this test?
Can I eat or drink anything 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