Generalized Protein Electrophoresis (Serum)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood using electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins based on size and charge.
["Helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may signal conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or kidney problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53038-6
- Short code
- Deprecated Gene dis anal overall Dx int
- Synonyms
- Deprecated Gene dis anal overall Dx int
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- molgen
- CPT
- 86038
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Proteins Does This Test Measure?
Electrophoresis splits blood proteins into five main fractions: albumin, alpha-1 globulins, alpha-2 globulins, beta globulins, and gamma globulins (antibodies). Abnormal shifts in these bands can indicate underlying health issues.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swelling, or if tests suggest conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or chronic inflammation.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The serum (liquid part after clotting) is then analyzed in a lab to separate proteins by size and charge.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test helps diagnose or monitor conditions such as multiple myeloma (cancer of plasma cells), liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis), kidney disease, or autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: Abnormal protein patterns detected in serum electrophoresis can signal serious conditions like cancer, immune disorders, or organ dysfunction. For example, elevated gamma globulins may suggest multiple myeloma or chronic infections, while low albumin could indicate liver or kidney disease. Early detection often allows for timely treatment.
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a ‘generalized’ or ‘overall’ label mean in this test?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I eat or drink 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