Serum Protein Electrophoresis (Albumin and Immunoglobulins), Qualitative — Deprecated Category Test
A historical qualitative test that separates serum proteins to assess albumin and immunoglobulin patterns. It has been replaced by more specific protein testing methods.
["This deprecated test evaluates the pattern of albumin and immunoglobulins in serum but should not be interpreted without the current protein test results."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 25585-1
- Short code
- Deprecated Cat Serum Alb IgE RAST Ql
- Synonyms
- Deprecated Cat Serum Alb IgE RAST Ql
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- 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 this test?
This is a qualitative serum protein electrophoresis test that separates proteins in blood serum into groups. It provides a general picture of the albumin and immunoglobulin bands rather than precise measurements of each protein.
Why might I need this test?
It may have been used to investigate an unusual blood protein pattern or possible monoclonal protein. It has generally been replaced by quantitative protein measurements, immunofixation, or other more specific laboratory methods.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected, and the serum is separated from the cells. The laboratory then uses electrophoresis to separate the serum proteins and reports the presence or pattern of albumin and immunoglobulin bands.
How do I prepare for the test?
Fasting is usually not required. Tell your clinician about recent intravenous immunoglobulin treatment, because administered antibodies can temporarily alter the protein pattern. Follow any preparation instructions provided with the test order.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An abnormal electrophoretic pattern may occur with inflammation, liver disease, kidney disease, or a monoclonal protein disorder. Because this is a deprecated qualitative category test, the result should be interpreted alongside current quantitative protein results, symptoms, and other appropriate testing.
Short name
Qualitative Serum Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
Is this still the usual way to evaluate serum proteins?
Does a qualitative result provide exact protein levels?
Can intravenous immunoglobulin affect the result?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy