Serum or Plasma Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, separated by size and charge, to help identify abnormalities such as protein disorders or conditions like multiple myeloma.
["Helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting blood proteins."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 37129-4
- Short code
- Deprecated Should-L XR AP+Ax+Y
- Synonyms
- Deprecated Should-L XR AP+Ax+Y
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 100
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- xr
- CPT
- 83721
- SNOMED
- 113079007
- 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
Protein electrophoresis separates blood proteins into fractions (e.g., albumin, alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, gamma-globulins) using an electric field. This helps detect unusual patterns that may signal conditions like monoclonal gammopathy or chronic inflammation.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used to screen for conditions such as multiple myeloma, Waldenström macroglobulinemia, or other monoclonal gammopathies. It may also help evaluate chronic liver disease, nephrotic syndrome, or autoimmune disorders.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn, and the serum or plasma is analyzed. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised depending on the lab’s protocol.
Interpretation and Results
Results show protein bands on an electrophoresis gel. Abnormal spikes, smears, or shifts in bands may indicate protein disorders or other systemic conditions requiring further medical evaluation.
Reference range
Optimal: <100 mg/dLN/A
Fasting for 12-14 hours preferred. Water is permitted. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance of this test includes identifying monoclonal proteins (e.g., M proteins) in plasma cells, which are linked to cancers like multiple myeloma. It also helps assess protein abnormalities in conditions like cirrhosis or kidney disease, guiding treatment decisions.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis (Qual)
Frequently asked questions
Why might I need this test?
What does a positive or abnormal result mean?
How long does it take to get 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