High-Resolution Serum Protein Electrophoresis (High-Resolution Serum Protein Electrophoresis)
This test measures the detailed breakdown of proteins in your blood, helping identify patterns that may indicate conditions like certain types of anemia, infections, or autoimmune diseases.
["High-resolution protein electrophoresis provides detailed insights into blood protein composition for diagnosing and monitoring health conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 57297-4
- Short code
- HLA-Cw High Res
- Synonyms
- HLA-Cw High Res
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- high-resolution
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
High-resolution serum protein electrophoresis separates blood proteins into distinct fractions (e.g., albumin, alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins) using gel electrophoresis. This allows for precise detection of abnormal protein patterns, such as monoclonal spikes (e.g., in multiple myeloma) or increased levels of specific globulins (e.g., in inflammatory conditions).
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, unexplained weight loss, frequent infections, or signs of an underlying blood disorder. It’s also used to monitor conditions like multiple myeloma, Waldenström macroglobulinemia, or certain autoimmune diseases where protein abnormalities are suspected.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum (the liquid part after clotting) before being analyzed. The test requires a fresh or refrigerated sample to maintain accuracy.
Interpretation and Results
Results show the distribution of proteins across different zones on an electrophoresis gel. Abnormal patterns (e.g., extra bands, high or low levels in specific zones) may require further testing or follow-up with a specialist, such as a hematologist or immunologist.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
High-res serum protein electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
High-resolution protein electrophoresis is critical for diagnosing and managing conditions like monoclonal gammopathy (e.g., multiple myeloma), where abnormal protein production can cause symptoms like bone pain, infections, or kidney issues. It also helps track treatment responses in patients undergoing therapies like chemotherapy or immunotherapy.
It provides a detailed map of your blood proteins, helping identify unusual patterns that may signal conditions like blood disorders, infections, or autoimmune diseases. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Can I eat or drink anything 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