Hawkins Inserra Serum Protein Electrophoresis (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the distribution of different protein types in your blood serum using electrophoresis, a technique that separates proteins based on size and charge.
["Understanding your protein makeup can help identify conditions affecting blood protein balance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 79125-1
- Short code
- Hawkinsin SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Hawkinsin SerPl-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 17
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 This Test Measures
Electrophoresis sorts proteins into five main bands: albumin, alpha-1 globulins, alpha-2 globulins, beta globulins, and gamma globulins (antibodies). This helps detect abnormalities in protein levels that may signal conditions like liver disease, infections, or immune disorders.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate protein abnormalities, diagnose conditions like multiple myeloma, monitor chronic diseases, or assess response to treatment for conditions affecting protein synthesis or breakdown.
Common Conditions Linked to Abnormal Results
Changes in protein bands can indicate issues such as low albumin (which may signal malnutrition or liver/kidney problems), high gamma globulins (possible autoimmune diseases or infections), or unusual patterns that warrant further investigation.
How the Test Works
A blood sample is drawn, and proteins are separated by an electric field. The resulting pattern shows relative concentrations of each protein type, which are then analyzed for balance and potential abnormalities.
Reference range
NCBI: NSE 0-17 ng/mLN/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 electrophoresis can reveal underlying health issues, such as liver dysfunction, kidney disease, infections, or immune system disorders. It’s often used alongside other tests to guide diagnosis and treatment planning.
Short name
Serum protein electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a normal result mean?
Can this test detect early-stage diseases?
How long does it take to get 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy