Electrophoresis of Serum Proteins (Qualitative)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood using gel electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins based on size and electrical charge.
["It helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may signal conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or other blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 60629-3
- Short code
- FH-SeGn (constructed) Skull XR
- Synonyms
- FH-SeGn (constructed) Skull XR
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- xr-measured
- 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 Is an Electrophoresis Test Used For?
Electrophoresis of serum proteins is primarily used to detect and monitor conditions affecting protein production or distribution in the blood. It can help identify abnormal protein bands that may indicate diseases such as multiple myeloma, lymphoma, or liver/kidney disorders. This test is also useful for screening before certain treatments or procedures.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from your arm. The serum portion is separated and placed on a gel. An electric current is applied, causing proteins to move toward the opposite charge. After separation, the gel is stained to visualize different protein bands.
What Might Abnormal Results Indicate?
Abnormal patterns may show excess or missing proteins. For example, a spike in a specific protein band might suggest multiple myeloma or another plasma cell disorder. Reduced levels of certain proteins could indicate liver or kidney disease.
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Electrophoresis of Serum Proteins plays a key role in diagnosing and managing conditions that alter protein composition in the blood. It is often used as part of a broader diagnostic workup for suspected hematologic malignancies, metabolic disorders, or organ system dysfunctions. Early detection of abnormal protein patterns can guide treatment decisions and monitor disease progression.
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
Why did my doctor order this test?
What should I expect during or after the blood draw?
Do I need to prepare for 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