Serum Albumin Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the protein composition of your blood serum using electrophoresis to separate and analyze albumin and other proteins.
["Helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may signal conditions like liver disease or kidney problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 4557-5
- Short code
- Hgb Abruz Bld Ql Elph Alk
- Synonyms
- Hgb Abruz Bld Ql Elph Alk
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 3.5
- Ref high
- 5
- Critical range
- 7 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- electrophoresis-ph
- CPT
- 84132
- SNOMED
- 110742001
- 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 Is Albumin Electrophoresis Used For?
Albumin electrophoresis is primarily used to detect abnormalities in protein distribution, such as hypoalbuminemia (low albumin levels) or the presence of abnormal proteins like paraproteins. This can help diagnose conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or nephrotic syndrome.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum, which is sent to the lab for electrophoresis analysis.
What Might Abnormal Results Indicate?
Abnormal results may show altered protein bands, indicating conditions like liver dysfunction, kidney disease, or the presence of monoclonal proteins (e.g., in multiple myeloma). Some patients may also have elevated or reduced levels of globulins or other proteins.
Preparation for the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. However, inform your healthcare provider about any medications you’re taking, as certain drugs (e.g., steroids) may affect protein levels.
Reference range
Adult: 3.5-5.0 mmol/LN/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.
Clinical Significance: Albumin electrophoresis plays a key role in diagnosing and monitoring conditions affecting protein synthesis, storage, or breakdown. For example, it helps identify monoclonal gammopathies (e.g., multiple myeloma) by detecting abnormal protein spikes, while liver or kidney disease may cause shifts in albumin and globulin levels.
Short name
Albumin Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What does it mean if my results show unusual protein bands?
Do I need to 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