Serum/Plasma Electrophoresis (Protein Electrophoresis)
This test measures the distribution of different protein types in your blood, including albumin, globulins, and other proteins, which helps assess conditions affecting protein balance.
["Helps diagnose and monitor protein-related disorders by showing how proteins separate in an electric field."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 111936-1
- Short code
- Find Esoph Endscpy
- Synonyms
- Find Esoph 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 Proteins Are Measured?
Electrophoresis separates blood proteins based on their electrical charge and size. Key protein bands include albumin (fast-moving), alpha, beta, and gamma globulins (slower-moving). Abnormal patterns may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or chronic inflammation.
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test to investigate symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swelling, or signs of immune system issues. It’s also used to monitor protein disorders or track treatment responses.
Common Conditions Affecting Results
Abnormal electrophoresis results can signal conditions such as multiple myeloma (excess monoclonal proteins), liver disease (altered albumin/globulin ratios), or autoimmune disorders (increased gamma globulins). Low albumin may indicate malnutrition or kidney problems.
Sample Preparation and Testing
A blood sample is drawn, and serum/plasma is separated. The sample is placed in an electric field, causing proteins to migrate at different speeds. The resulting pattern is analyzed to identify protein distribution shifts.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test plays a critical role in diagnosing and managing protein-related diseases. For example, detecting monoclonal spikes (Bence Jones proteins) helps confirm multiple myeloma, while globulin fraction changes may reveal immune system dysfunctions or chronic infections. Early identification can guide targeted treatments.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a ‘spike’ or unusual band pattern mean in my results?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet affect my protein electrophoresis results?
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