Serum or Plasma Total Protein with Electrophoresis Profile (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 abnormalities in protein distribution, which may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or kidney problems.
["Electrophoresis helps detect unusual protein patterns that could signal serious health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 46192-1
- Short code
- HTLV II IgG Ser Ql
- Synonyms
- HTLV II IgG Ser Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 Proteins Does This Test Measure?
Electrophoresis splits blood proteins into distinct bands, each representing a group of proteins with similar electrical charges. Common bands include albumin (fast-moving), alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins (slow-moving). Abnormal bands or shifts may appear due to disease processes.
Why Might You Need This Test?
This test is often ordered when doctors suspect conditions like multiple myeloma (cancer of plasma cells), chronic liver disease, kidney disease, or certain autoimmune disorders. It can also help monitor treatment progress or evaluate symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or unexplained weight changes.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in the arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised depending on clinical context.
What Does an Abnormal Result Mean?
Abnormal electrophoresis results may show increased or decreased bands, unusual spikes, or shifts in protein distribution. For example, a high gamma-globulin band might suggest multiple myeloma or chronic inflammation, while a low albumin level could indicate liver or kidney disease.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test is critical for diagnosing and managing conditions affecting protein synthesis, breakdown, or transport in the body. It helps differentiate between diseases that alter protein levels, such as infections, cancers, or metabolic disorders, by providing a detailed profile of protein composition.
Short name
Qualitative Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What is the purpose of this test?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink 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