Bromocresol Green Protein Electrophoresis (Serum)
This test measures protein distribution in your blood using electrophoresis with bromocresol green dye to assess protein patterns, often used to evaluate conditions affecting protein synthesis or breakdown.
["This test helps diagnose or monitor protein disorders by analyzing how proteins separate in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30700-9
- Short code
- Deprecated US XXX Bx needle guide
- Synonyms
- Deprecated US XXX 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
- us
- 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
Electrophoresis separates proteins in your serum based on size and charge. Bromocresol green dye binds to specific protein fractions, allowing for visual or quantitative analysis of protein bands. This helps identify abnormalities in protein composition, such as those seen in conditions like multiple myeloma or liver disease.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test to investigate symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or swelling, or to monitor conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver disorders, or certain cancers. It can also help assess protein malnutrition or evaluate the effectiveness of treatments targeting protein metabolism.
Sample Collection
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum, which is then analyzed. This test typically requires fasting, but your provider will confirm specific instructions.
Preparation and Results
No special preparation is needed beyond fasting if instructed. Results are interpreted by comparing protein patterns to expected ranges, which may vary by lab. Follow-up may include additional tests or consultations based on findings.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein patterns on this test can indicate conditions affecting protein synthesis (e.g., liver disease), breakdown (e.g., kidney disease), or abnormal protein production (e.g., multiple myeloma). Low or high protein fractions may signal malnutrition, inflammation, or systemic disorders. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized interpretation.
Short name
BCG Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Is there any risk or discomfort with blood drawing?
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