Serum Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the distribution of different protein fractions in your blood serum using electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins based on size and charge.
["This helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may signal conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or other disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35692-3
- Short code
- G0+G1 Phs Cells NFr Spec FC
- Synonyms
- G0+G1 Phs Cells NFr Spec FC
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- 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 five main bands: albumin, alpha-1 globulins, alpha-2 globulins, beta globulins, and gamma globulins (including immunoglobulins). Each band reflects the concentration and type of proteins present, which can indicate underlying health issues.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swelling, or if they suspect conditions like multiple myeloma, lymphoma, liver disease, or kidney problems. It’s also used to monitor treatment progress in certain diseases.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The serum portion is separated and placed in an electrophoresis chamber, where an electric current causes proteins to migrate to different positions based on their properties. The results are read visually or digitally to assess protein distribution.
What Are Common Findings?
Abnormal patterns may show increased or decreased levels of specific protein bands. For example, a spike in gamma globulins might suggest multiple myeloma or other monoclonal gammopathies, while altered albumin levels could indicate liver or kidney disease.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Qualitative Serum Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What could abnormal results mean?
How soon will I get my results?
Is there anything I should do before the 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