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Paraprotein (Monoclonal Protein) in Serum or Plasma by Qualitative Probe-Based Nucleotide Amplification

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

This test detects abnormal protein fragments (monoclonal proteins) that may appear in your blood or plasma. These fragments can sometimes signal conditions like multiple myeloma or other monoclonal gammopathies.

Quick summary

["A simple blood test to check for unusual protein patterns that might indicate rare blood disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
101780-5
Short code
Deprecated C parap DNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
Deprecated C parap DNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
probe-amp-tar
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 doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained fatigue, frequent infections, or bone pain. It can also be part of routine screening for certain blood-related conditions or when other tests suggest an unusual protein presence.

What to Expect During the Test

You’ll have a small blood sample drawn from your arm. The test uses a specialized probe to detect specific DNA sequences linked to monoclonal proteins. Results are qualitative (yes/no) rather than measuring exact amounts.

What the Results Mean

A positive result means your blood or plasma contains abnormal protein fragments. This doesn’t always mean you have a serious condition, but it warrants further evaluation by your doctor to explore possible causes.

Common Conditions Linked to Positive Results

Positive results may be associated with monoclonal gammopathies (like multiple myeloma), lymphomas, or other rare blood disorders. Your doctor will discuss next steps, which may include additional tests or monitoring.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Monoclonal Protein Screen

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean for my health?
A positive result means your blood or plasma contains unusual protein fragments. This doesn’t automatically mean you have a disease, but it may prompt further testing to check for conditions like multiple myeloma or other blood disorders. Your doctor will explain the next steps based on your symptoms and test results.
Will I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is needed. You can eat, drink, or take medications as usual. The test is quick and typically done in a lab setting.
How long will it take to get my results?
Results are usually available within a few days to a week, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will contact you with the final interpretation.
  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