Albumin and Total Protein Electrophoresis (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the levels of albumin and total protein in your blood using electrophoresis, a method that separates different protein types based on size and charge.
["Helps assess liver function, kidney health, and overall protein balance in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 4578-1
- Short code
- Hgb F-Texas Bld Elph Alk-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Hgb F-Texas 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein production, such as liver disease, kidney problems, malnutrition, or certain blood disorders. It can also help monitor treatment progress for conditions like nephrotic syndrome or chronic liver disease.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate proteins, which are analyzed using electrophoresis. This technique separates proteins into bands, allowing for comparison against known standards to estimate albumin and total protein levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours if your provider specifies. Wear comfortable clothing and plan for a short visit to the lab.
What to Expect During the Test
The test involves a quick, minor blood draw from your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it typically takes only a few minutes. You can usually return to normal activities immediately afterward.
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
Albumin & Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What Does a Low or High Albumin Level Mean?
How Often Should This Test Be Done?
Can Diet Affect Albumin or Protein Levels?
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