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Serum Phenotype (or Protein Electrophoresis Profile)

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

This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, often used to check for conditions affecting protein balance, such as infections, kidney disease, or certain cancers.

Quick summary

["Helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may signal underlying health issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
66182-7
Short code
DS PhenX
Synonyms
DS PhenX
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
phenx
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

The test separates blood proteins into distinct bands using electrophoresis, revealing their relative amounts. This helps doctors assess conditions like multiple myeloma, infections, or liver/kidney disorders by detecting unusual protein spikes or dips.

Why It’s Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swelling, or if they suspect conditions like monoclonal gammopathy (an abnormal protein), liver disease, or certain cancers.

Common Conditions Detected

Abnormal results may indicate conditions such as multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells), benign monoclonal gammopathy, infections (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), or metabolic disorders like porphyria.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum (the liquid part after clotting) for analysis. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised in some cases for related tests.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Protein Electrophoresis

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor want to know my protein electrophoresis results?
Your doctor may use these results to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting protein levels, such as cancers, infections, or metabolic disorders. Abnormal patterns can guide treatment decisions, like adjusting medications or planning further tests.
What do I do if my results are abnormal?
If your results show unusual protein patterns, your doctor will discuss next steps, which may include additional tests, follow-up visits, or treatment adjustments based on your symptoms and overall health.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will contact you with the findings once they’re ready.
  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