Multisectional Sagittal Serum Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the distribution of different protein fractions in your blood serum using electrophoresis, a technique that separates proteins based on size and charge.
["Helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may signal conditions like infections, inflammation, or inherited disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 25051-4
- Short code
- Deprecated XXX CT Multisectional sagitta
- Synonyms
- Deprecated XXX CT Multisectional sagitta
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct
- 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 divides blood proteins into distinct bands (fractions) based on their electrical charge and molecular weight. Key fractions include albumin, alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins. Abnormal band patterns can indicate conditions affecting protein production or function.
Common Clinical Uses
This test is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions such as multiple myeloma, Waldenström macroglobulinemia, chronic inflammatory diseases, or certain genetic disorders like alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. It may also help assess protein loss in kidney disease or liver dysfunction.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in the arm. The serum (liquid part after clotting) is then separated and analyzed in a lab to create the protein profile.
Interpretation and Results
Results are presented as a graphical profile showing the relative amounts of each protein fraction. A healthcare provider will compare these results to your clinical picture and reference ranges to determine if further testing or treatment is needed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein patterns can signal underlying health issues. For example, elevated gamma-globulins may suggest chronic infection or autoimmune disease, while unusual band shifts could indicate inherited metabolic disorders or malignancies. Always discuss results with your doctor.
Short name
Multisectional Serum Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
Why might I need this test?
What does a normal result mean?
Can I prepare for 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