Protein Electrophoresis (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, including albumin, globulins, and other proteins, which helps assess protein balance and potential conditions like kidney disease or liver problems.
["This test helps doctors check for protein imbalances that may signal underlying health issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13051-8
- Short code
- Deprecated Prot S PPP-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Deprecated Prot S PPP-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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?
Protein electrophoresis separates blood proteins into distinct fractions based on size and electrical charge. Key components include albumin (the most abundant protein, supporting blood pressure and nutrient transport) and globulins (which include antibodies, transport proteins, and other immune-related proteins). Other minor protein bands may also appear depending on the method used.
Why Is This Test Done?
Doctors may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like multiple myeloma, kidney disease, liver disease, or certain autoimmune disorders. It can also help evaluate protein loss in urine (e.g., in nephrotic syndrome) or track treatment responses in chronic conditions.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in the arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. Some labs may use capillary blood (from a finger prick) for simpler tests, but full electrophoresis typically requires venous blood.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if albumin levels are specifically being checked. Avoid excessive alcohol or certain medications that could interfere with results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein patterns can indicate serious conditions. For example, a spike in monoclonal proteins (e.g., M-spikes) may suggest multiple myeloma or lymphoma. Low albumin could signal liver or kidney disease, while elevated globulins might point to infections, inflammation, or autoimmune disorders. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a ‘deprecated’ label mean?
Will I need follow-up tests if my results are abnormal?
Can diet or medications affect protein electrophoresis results?
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