Serum Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood using electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins based on their size and electrical charge. It helps identify abnormalities in protein distribution, which can indicate conditions like infections, liver disease, or certain cancers.
["Electrophoresis helps doctors spot unusual protein patterns that may signal hidden health issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 4581-5
- Short code
- Hgb G-Coush Bld Ql Elph Acid
- Synonyms
- Hgb G-Coush 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
Your doctor orders this test to measure the amount of protein in your blood or urine, which helps show how well your liver, kidneys, and immune system are working. The results can help detect conditions such as malnutrition, dehydration, liver disease, or kidney problems.
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swelling, or if they suspect conditions like multiple myeloma, lymphoma, or chronic liver disease. It’s also used to monitor protein levels in people with kidney disease or certain autoimmune disorders.
A small sample of blood is typically drawn from a vein in your arm and sent to a laboratory, where the total amount of protein is measured with specialized equipment. If a urine sample is needed instead, you will receive clear instructions on how to collect it properly at home.
A small blood sample is drawn, and the serum (liquid part of blood) is placed on a gel. An electric current is applied, causing proteins to move toward the opposite charge. After separation, the proteins are stained and visualized to show their relative amounts in different protein fractions (e.g., albumin, globulins).
Most people do not need any special preparation and can eat and drink normally before the test. Be sure to tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you take, because some of them can affect your protein levels. Follow any specific instructions your healthcare provider gives you.
No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about any medications you’re taking, as some may affect protein levels. Avoid fasting unless instructed, as it may not impact this test but could affect other blood tests.
A healthcare professional will wrap a band around your upper arm, clean the puncture site with an antiseptic, and draw a small amount of blood into a vial. You may feel a quick pinch or sting, and the whole process usually takes only a few minutes. You can return to your normal activities right afterward.
You’ll have a quick needle prick to draw blood, usually from your arm. The process takes about 5 minutes. The sample is then processed in a lab to analyze protein patterns. Results are typically ready within 24–48 hours.
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.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Serum Protein Profile
Frequently asked questions
Abnormal protein patterns can signal underlying health problems. For example, high levels of certain globulins might indicate infections or inflammation, while unusual spikes in albumin could point to liver or kidney issues. Electrophoresis is also used to diagnose and monitor conditions like monoclonal gammopathy (a protein abnormality linked to cancer).
High levels of specific proteins (like immunoglobulins) may suggest conditions like multiple myeloma or autoimmune diseases. Low albumin levels could indicate liver disease, malnutrition, or kidney problems. Always discuss results with your doctor—they’ll interpret them in the context of your overall health.
Results are usually available within 24–48 hours, but timing depends on your lab’s schedule. Your doctor will contact you once they’re ready to discuss findings.
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