Serum Protein Electrophoresis with Bromocresol Purple Staining
This test measures the distribution of different protein fractions in your blood serum using electrophoresis and a dye called bromocresol purple. It helps identify abnormalities in protein levels that may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or other metabolic disorders.
["Electrophoresis helps doctors spot protein imbalances that could signal serious health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 4577-3
- Short code
- Hgb F-Texas Bld Ql Elph Acid
- Synonyms
- Hgb F-Texas Bld Ql Elph Acid
- 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 This Test Measures
Electrophoresis separates blood proteins based on their electrical charge and size. Bromocresol purple binds to specific protein groups, allowing for visual differentiation of albumin, alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins. This helps detect shifts in protein composition that may reflect underlying health issues.
Why It’s Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swollen glands, or signs of organ dysfunction. It’s also used as part of screening or monitoring for conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver disease, or certain cancers.
How It Works
A small blood sample is drawn, and the serum is separated and placed on a gel. An electric current is applied, causing proteins to migrate toward the positive end. The bromocresol purple dye stains proteins, creating bands that represent different protein groups.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test helps diagnose or evaluate conditions such as multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells), liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis), kidney disease, and certain autoimmune disorders. Abnormal patterns may also indicate nutritional deficiencies or metabolic disorders.
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.
This test plays a key role in identifying protein imbalances that can signal serious health problems. For example, elevated gamma-globulins might suggest immune system issues, while abnormal alpha-globulin patterns could indicate liver or kidney problems. It’s often used alongside other tests for a complete assessment.
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis (BCP)
Frequently asked questions
What does a serum protein electrophoresis test show?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Is there anything I should avoid 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