Serum or Plasma Electrophoresis (Protein Electrophoresis)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, separated by size and charge. It helps identify abnormalities in protein distribution that may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or other disorders.
["Protein electrophoresis can reveal unusual protein patterns that may signal serious health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 108713-9
- Short code
- EPO Msmt SerPl
- Synonyms
- EPO Msmt SerPl
- 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 Does This Test Measure?
Electrophoresis separates blood proteins into fractions based on their electrical charge and size. Common protein bands include albumin, alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins. Abnormal spikes or dips in these bands may suggest underlying health issues.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, or signs of organ dysfunction. It’s also used to monitor conditions like multiple myeloma, amyloidosis, or chronic liver disease.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The serum or plasma is then placed in an electric field to separate proteins. The results are analyzed to identify any abnormal patterns.
What Are Common Findings?
Normal results show balanced protein bands. Abnormal findings may include: - **Monoclonal spikes** (e.g., M-protein) in gamma-globulins, often linked to multiple myeloma. - **Reduced albumin** levels, which could indicate liver disease or malnutrition. - **Increased alpha-2 or beta-globulins**, which may signal inflammation, infection, or other metabolic disorders.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Protein electrophoresis is critical for diagnosing and managing conditions affecting protein production or distribution. For example, monoclonal gammopathy (seen in multiple myeloma) or dysproteinemias (abnormal protein syndromes) require further evaluation, including bone marrow tests or follow-up imaging.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What Does a Positive or Abnormal Result Mean?
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Can Diet or Lifestyle Affect 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