Serum Protein Electrophoresis with Bromocresol Green (BCG) Staining
This test measures the distribution of different protein types in your blood serum using electrophoresis and a dye called bromocresol green. It helps identify abnormalities in protein patterns that may signal conditions like infections, liver disease, or certain cancers.
["This test helps doctors diagnose and monitor conditions affecting blood proteins."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 4571-6
- Short code
- Hgb D-Punjab Bld Elph Alk-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Hgb D-Punjab Bld Elph Alk-aCnc
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 12
- Ref high
- 17.5
- Critical range
- 7 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- electrophoresis-ph
- CPT
- 85018
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003004
- 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 Proteins Does This Test Measure?
Electrophoresis separates proteins in your blood based on size and electrical charge. The BCG dye binds to proteins in specific regions, highlighting different protein fractions such as albumin, alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins. These fractions can indicate the presence of abnormal proteins or changes in protein levels.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swelling, or if they suspect conditions like multiple myeloma, lymphoma, liver disease, or chronic infections. It can also be used to monitor treatment progress for certain diseases.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The serum is then separated and placed in a gel medium. An electric current is applied to separate proteins by size and charge. After staining with bromocresol green, the results are analyzed to identify protein patterns.
What Do the Results Mean?
The results show the relative amounts of different protein groups. Abnormal patterns may suggest conditions like monoclonal gammopathy (excess of a single protein), inflammation, or metabolic disorders. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Reference range
Adult males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL; Females: 12.0-16.0 g/dLN/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.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis (BCG)
Frequently asked questions
What preparation is needed before the test?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink 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