Serum or Plasma Substance Concentration (General Protein Electrophoresis Profile)
This test measures the distribution of different proteins in your blood, often used to identify abnormalities in protein levels that may suggest conditions like infections, liver disease, or certain cancers.
["Helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting protein balance in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 18545-4
- Short code
- J Pnt ST Amp+20ms L-AVL
- Synonyms
- J Pnt ST Amp+20ms L-AVL
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ekg
- 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
Electrophoresis separates blood proteins based on size and charge, allowing for the detection of abnormal protein patterns. This includes proteins like albumin, globulins, and other fractions that may appear elevated or reduced in certain diseases.
Common Conditions Evaluated
Protein electrophoresis is commonly used to screen for conditions such as multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells), Waldenström macroglobulinemia (a type of lymphoma), liver disease, kidney disease, and certain autoimmune disorders.
Sample Collection and Preparation
Blood is drawn from a vein, typically in the arm. The sample is then processed to separate serum or plasma, which is sent to the lab for electrophoresis analysis.
Interpreting Results
Results show the relative amounts of different protein bands. Abnormal patterns may indicate specific protein abnormalities that require further medical evaluation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis Profile
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What are the typical reference ranges?
How long does it take to get results?
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