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Serum Protein Electrophoresis (Bromocresol Purple Method)

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

This test measures the distribution of different protein fractions in your blood serum, helping identify abnormalities in protein composition.

Quick summary

["This test helps detect conditions affecting protein balance in your blood."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
97910-4
Short code
ETP PPP Chro-AUC
Synonyms
ETP PPP Chro-AUC
Category
chemistry
Sample
plasma
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
chromo
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 Proteins Are Measured?

Electrophoresis separates blood proteins into groups based on size and electrical charge. The bromocresol purple dye binds to proteins, allowing for visual differentiation of albumin, alpha, beta, and gamma globulins. This helps assess overall protein distribution and identify potential imbalances.

When Might This Test Be Ordered?

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, swelling, or unexplained weight changes, or if they suspect conditions like multiple myeloma, lymphoma, or chronic inflammation.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn, and the serum is separated. The serum is then placed in an electric field to separate proteins, stained with bromocresol purple, and analyzed for relative concentrations of each protein fraction.

What Does the Test Result Indicate?

Results show the proportion of albumin, alpha, beta, and gamma globulins. Abnormal patterns may indicate conditions such as protein-losing disorders, infections, or autoimmune diseases.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Bromocresol Purple Serum Protein Electrophoresis

Frequently asked questions

Why was I asked to have this test?
Your healthcare provider may have noticed symptoms or lab findings that suggest an imbalance in your blood proteins, such as unexplained swelling, fatigue, or abnormal blood tests.
What do my results mean?
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your clinical picture. They may compare your protein distribution to standard patterns and look for unusual spikes or dips in specific protein groups.
How often will I need this test?
Frequency depends on your condition. If you have a chronic illness, your provider may order this test periodically to monitor changes in your protein levels.
  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