Total Hardwood Mix (Electrophoresis) Profile
This test measures protein distribution in your blood using electrophoresis to analyze components like albumin and globulins, which help identify conditions affecting protein balance.
["Electrophoresis helps assess protein patterns that may signal liver, kidney, or immune system issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 96794-3
- Short code
- Hardwood Mix IgE Qn
- Synonyms
- Hardwood Mix IgE Qn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 11.5
- Ref high
- 14.5
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- multidisk
- 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 fractions (albumin, alpha, beta, and gamma globulins) based on size and charge. This helps detect abnormalities in protein levels, which can indicate conditions like liver disease, infections, or autoimmune disorders.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, unexplained weight loss, swelling, or if they suspect conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or chronic infections.
Common Conditions Evaluated
This test can help diagnose or monitor conditions such as protein-losing syndromes, certain cancers (e.g., lymphoma), or chronic inflammatory diseases by comparing protein patterns to expected ranges.
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 and analyzed using electrophoresis to separate proteins for evaluation.
Reference range
Adult: 11.5-14.5%N/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein patterns may signal underlying health issues. For example, low albumin could indicate liver disease or malnutrition, while elevated gamma globulins might suggest infections or autoimmune disorders. Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Short name
Hardwood Mix Electrophoresis Profile
Frequently asked questions
What does a 'hardwood mix' refer to in this test?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can this test be done at home?
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