Serum or Plasma Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative) with Bromocresol Green Staining
This test measures the distribution of different protein types in your blood, often used to check for conditions affecting protein levels or patterns, such as multiple myeloma or other blood disorders.
["Helps identify unusual protein patterns that may signal underlying health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 63542-5
- Short code
- ENA Scl70 Ab Fld Ql
- Synonyms
- ENA Scl70 Ab Fld Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- 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 This Test Measures
The test uses a technique called electrophoresis to separate proteins in your blood based on size and charge. Bromocresol Green dye binds to specific proteins, allowing for visual differentiation of protein bands. This helps detect abnormalities in protein concentration or distribution that may indicate conditions like monoclonal gammopathy or protein-losing syndromes.
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, frequent infections, or swelling. It’s also used as part of screening or monitoring for conditions like multiple myeloma, amyloidosis, or certain types of lymphoma.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma, which is sent to the lab for analysis. The sample is mixed with Bromocresol Green dye and placed in an electric field to separate proteins.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or foods that could interfere with results. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein patterns detected in this test can signal conditions such as monoclonal gammopathy (where abnormal proteins accumulate), protein-losing disorders (like nephrotic syndrome), or systemic diseases like multiple myeloma or amyloidosis. Early detection can guide treatment decisions and monitor disease progression.
Short name
Bromocresol Green Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
What does it mean if my protein electrophoresis shows unusual bands?
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