Serum or Plasma Protein Electrophoresis with Bromocresol Green (BCG) Dye Binding Assay
This test measures the distribution of proteins in your blood using electrophoresis and a dye called bromocresol green. It helps identify patterns of protein concentration that may indicate conditions like infections, inflammation, or certain blood disorders.
["This test helps doctors check protein balance in your blood and spot potential health issues early."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 90460-7
- Short code
- HEV RNA SerPl Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- HEV RNA SerPl Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- 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 the Test Measures
Electrophoresis separates blood proteins based on size and charge, creating bands that reflect different protein groups (e.g., albumin, globulins). The BCG dye binds to albumin, allowing for precise measurement of its concentration relative to other proteins. This helps assess overall protein distribution and identify abnormalities.
Why It’s Done
Doctors may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions such as multiple myeloma, chronic liver disease, nephrotic syndrome, or other protein-related disorders. It’s also used in screening for conditions like infections or autoimmune diseases that affect protein levels.
Sample Collection
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is then processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. This test can be performed on fresh or stored samples, depending on clinical needs.
Preparation
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or foods that could interfere with results (e.g., certain supplements or high-protein diets). Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test plays a critical role in identifying imbalances in blood proteins, which can signal underlying health problems. For example, abnormal patterns may reveal conditions like liver disease (reduced albumin), multiple myeloma (elevated monoclonal proteins), or inflammatory diseases (altered globulin levels). Early detection can guide treatment decisions.
Short name
BCG Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low protein result mean?
How long will I need to wait for results?
Can I fast before this 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