Serum Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood using electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins based on size and charge.
["It helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may signal conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or other disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 4604-5
- Short code
- Hgb Lepore Bld Ql Elph Acid
- Synonyms
- Hgb Lepore 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 Proteins Are Measured?
Electrophoresis splits blood proteins into five main fractions: albumin, alpha-1 globulins, alpha-2 globulins, beta globulins, and gamma globulins. Each fraction contains proteins with distinct roles in your body, such as immune defense or blood clotting.
Why This Test Might Be Ordered?
Your doctor may recommend this test to investigate symptoms like fatigue, unexplained weight loss, swollen glands, or recurring infections. It’s also used to monitor conditions like chronic liver disease or certain cancers.
Common Conditions Detected?
Abnormal patterns can reveal conditions such as multiple myeloma (overproduction of abnormal antibodies), liver disease (elevated globulins), or inflammatory disorders (increased gamma globulins).
Sample Preparation and Testing Process
A blood sample is drawn and sent to a lab. The serum is separated and placed in an electric field, causing proteins to migrate toward opposite charges. A gel or membrane captures the separation, creating distinct bands for each protein fraction.
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.
Abnormal results may prompt further testing, such as bone marrow biopsy or additional blood work, to diagnose underlying causes. Early detection of protein abnormalities can improve treatment planning for conditions like autoimmune diseases or cancers.
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a ‘qualitative’ result mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Can diet affect 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