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Serum or Plasma Bromocresol Green Protein Binding Index (BCGPBI)

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

This test measures how proteins in your blood bind to a dye called bromocresol green, which helps assess liver function and protein metabolism.

Quick summary

["This test evaluates liver health and protein balance in your bloodstream."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
7343-7
Short code
Goldenrod BasoBnd Ab Qn
Synonyms
Goldenrod BasoBnd Ab Qn
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
lhr
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The bromocresol green dye binds to certain proteins in your serum or plasma. The test quantifies how much dye is bound, reflecting the concentration of these proteins. This indirectly indicates liver function, particularly the synthesis of albumin and other proteins.

Why It’s Done

Doctors may order this test to check for liver disease, protein disorders, or malnutrition. It can also help monitor conditions like cirrhosis, chronic liver disease, or kidney problems that affect protein production.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is processed to separate serum or plasma before testing.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used alongside other liver function tests to detect issues like reduced protein synthesis in conditions such as liver failure, chronic hepatitis, or severe malnutrition.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

BCG Protein Binding Test

Frequently asked questions

How does this test differ from a standard liver function panel?
Unlike standard liver tests (e.g., ALT, AST, bilirubin), this test specifically evaluates protein binding capacity, which can highlight subtle changes in protein metabolism that other tests may miss.
What might cause abnormal results?
Abnormal results could indicate liver disease, malnutrition, severe kidney disease, or conditions affecting protein synthesis. High results may suggest normal protein levels, while low results may point to liver dysfunction or protein loss.
Can this test be done at home?
No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting.
  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