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Liver Function Profile with Protein Electrophoresis

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

This test evaluates your liver’s function and the composition of proteins in your blood, including how well your liver produces and maintains proteins like albumin and globulins.

Quick summary

["Helps diagnose and monitor liver disease, protein disorders, and other conditions affecting blood protein balance."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
69246-7
Short code
Deprecated RF Liver PC Bx needle guide
Synonyms
Deprecated RF Liver PC 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
rf
CPT
86430
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 Does This Test Measure?

The test includes a liver function profile (e.g., bilirubin, enzymes like ALT/AST, albumin, and globulin levels) and a protein electrophoresis to separate different types of proteins in your blood, such as albumin and globulins. These measurements help assess liver health and identify potential protein disorders.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like jaundice, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or if they suspect liver disease, kidney disease, or conditions affecting protein synthesis (e.g., cirrhosis, hepatitis, or certain cancers).

How Is This Test Performed?

Blood is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then analyzed using electrophoresis to separate proteins and liver function tests to measure specific analytes. Results are compared to standard ranges to identify abnormalities.

What Are Common Findings?

Abnormal results may indicate liver damage, reduced protein production, or conditions like hypoalbuminemia (low albumin) or dysproteinemias (unusual protein patterns). Elevated liver enzymes could signal inflammation or injury.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Liver Function Panel + Protein Electrophoresis

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low protein electrophoresis result mean?
High or low levels of specific proteins (e.g., albumin, globulins) can signal liver, kidney, or immune system issues. For example, low albumin may indicate liver disease or malnutrition, while abnormal protein bands could suggest conditions like multiple myeloma or amyloidosis.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on lab processing times. Follow-up with your healthcare provider is needed to discuss findings and next steps.
Can diet or medications affect this test?
Yes, certain foods (e.g., fatty foods), medications (e.g., acetaminophen, NSAIDs), or liver disease medications may influence liver enzyme levels. Inform your provider about all medications or dietary changes before testing.
  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