Serum Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood serum, helping identify abnormalities in protein distribution that may signal conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or other disorders.
["This simple blood test helps doctors spot protein imbalances that could indicate serious health issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13156-5
- Short code
- Deprecated S pneum14 Ab 2:1 Ser-Rto
- Synonyms
- Deprecated S pneum14 Ab 2:1 Ser-Rto
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- 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 Does This Test Measure?
Serum protein electrophoresis separates blood proteins into fractions (e.g., albumin, globulins) using an electric field. This helps detect unusual protein patterns, such as monoclonal spikes (seen in multiple myeloma) or elevated globulins (linked to chronic inflammation or infections).
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, frequent infections, or signs of organ dysfunction. It’s also used in monitoring conditions like multiple myeloma, lymphoma, or liver/kidney disease.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from your arm. The serum portion is separated and placed on a gel. An electric current runs through the gel, causing proteins to migrate based on size and charge. A dye stains the proteins, revealing their distribution.
What Are Common Findings?
Normal results show a balanced distribution of albumin (fast-moving) and globulins (slower-moving). Abnormal findings may include a single, sharp peak (monoclonal spike), broad bands (e.g., alpha-2 or beta globulins), or reduced albumin levels.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein patterns can indicate underlying diseases, such as monoclonal gammopathy (e.g., multiple myeloma), chronic inflammation, liver disease, or autoimmune disorders. Early detection may guide treatment decisions.
Short name
Q Serum Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a ‘monoclonal spike’ mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Can diet or medications affect 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