Electrophoresis for Serum Proteins (Qualitative or Semi-Quantitative)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, separated by size and charge. It helps identify abnormalities in protein distribution, which can signal conditions like infections, kidney disease, or certain cancers.
["This test helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting protein balance in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 80194-4
- Short code
- EME Fld Cfm-mCnc
- Synonyms
- EME Fld Cfm-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- confirm
- 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?
Electrophoresis separates proteins in your serum into five main bands: albumin, alpha-1 globulins, alpha-2 globulins, beta globulins, and gamma globulins (antibodies). Each band represents a different protein group. The test may also show abnormal proteins or protein levels that can indicate health issues.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, swelling, frequent infections, or unexplained weight loss. It’s also used to monitor conditions like multiple myeloma, lymphoma, or kidney disease.
Common Conditions Monitored
Abnormal results can point to conditions such as multiple myeloma (overproduction of abnormal antibodies), chronic liver disease (altered protein synthesis), or kidney problems (protein loss in urine). It may also help detect infections or inflammatory diseases.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then sent to the lab, where it’s separated into serum (the liquid part after clotting). The serum is analyzed using electrophoresis to separate proteins.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Results are compared to expected patterns. Elevated or low levels in specific protein bands can signal underlying health problems. For example, a high gamma globulin band may suggest an immune disorder, while an abnormal alpha-2 band could indicate liver disease. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis (SPE)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
What does it mean if my protein bands look unusual?
Can I eat or drink anything before 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