Bromocresol Blue Reaction in Serum/Plasma (for Bromocresol Blue Test, Qualitative)
This test measures the ability of your serum or plasma to react with bromocresol blue dye, a method historically used to assess protein concentration or certain metabolic conditions.
["This test helps evaluate protein levels or acid-base balance in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 46286-1
- Short code
- Deprecated MG Brst Bx needle guide
- Synonyms
- Deprecated MG Brst Bx needle guide
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- mg
- 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 This Test Measures
Bromocresol Blue is a dye that changes color based on the pH and protein concentration in your blood. In this test, the dye’s reaction indicates whether your serum or plasma has sufficient buffering capacity or protein presence. This method was traditionally used to detect abnormalities in protein metabolism or acid-base disorders.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may request this test if they suspect conditions like metabolic acidosis, protein deficiency, or certain liver or kidney disorders. It can also be part of broader metabolic screening or research studies.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in the arm. The blood is then separated into serum (liquid after clotting) or plasma (liquid before clotting). The sample is sent to a lab where it undergoes the bromocresol blue reaction to determine the qualitative result.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may eat and drink normally, but inform your provider if you are on certain medications or have conditions that could affect blood tests.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Bromocresol Blue Test (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive or abnormal result mean?
How often is this test performed?
Can I fast 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