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: Examination of Serum/Plasma by Protein Electrophoresis

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

: This test separates the proteins in a blood sample to see their relative amounts, helping evaluate conditions such as abnormal protein production or immune system disorders.

Quick summary

[": Protein electrophoresis gives a broad picture of the major protein groups in your blood."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111857-9
Short code
Exam info SB Endscpy
Synonyms
Exam info SB Endscpy
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
endoscopy
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

: Proteins in the liquid part of blood (serum or plasma) are separated by an electrical field based on their size and charge. This produces a pattern showing major protein fractions such as albumin and the globulins (alpha, beta, and gamma regions).

: Why It Is Ordered

: Your clinician may order this test to investigate unexplained fatigue, recurrent infections, abnormal total protein results, or to monitor a known blood or immune condition. It can help detect patterns suggesting inflammation, liver or kidney problems, or unusual protein production.

: How the Sample Is Collected

: A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed in the laboratory to separate and measure the protein fractions.

: What Results Mean

: Results describe the relative proportion of each protein fraction rather than a single number. Your clinician interprets the overall pattern alongside your symptoms and other tests rather than relying on this test alone.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

: Serum Protein Electrophoresis

Frequently asked questions

: Do I need to fast before this test?
: Fasting is generally not required for protein electrophoresis, but follow any specific instructions your clinician or laboratory provides.
: How long does it take to get results?
: Turnaround time varies by laboratory, but results are often available within a few days. Ask your testing site for an expected timeframe.
: Can this test diagnose a specific disease on its own?
: No. It shows a pattern of protein fractions that must be interpreted together with your medical history, symptoms, and other laboratory tests. Additional testing is often needed to confirm a diagnosis.
  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