Protein Electrophoresis (Serum/Plasma) with Bromocresol Green (BCG) Dye Binding
This test measures protein distribution in your blood using a dye that binds to specific protein fractions, helping identify patterns of protein abnormalities.
["Assesses protein composition to detect potential imbalances linked to kidney disease or other conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 85761-5
- Short code
- K pnm DNA Bld Pos Ql NAA+n-prb
- Synonyms
- K pnm DNA Bld Pos Ql NAA+n-prb
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- non-probe-amp-tar
- 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 This Test Measures
The test uses bromocresol green dye to separate and quantify different protein groups in your blood. Proteins are categorized into fractions such as albumin, alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins. The dye binds to these proteins, allowing for visual or quantitative analysis of their relative amounts.
Why It’s Done
Doctors may order this test to evaluate kidney function, detect protein disorders, or monitor conditions like multiple myeloma, nephrotic syndrome, or certain autoimmune diseases. It can also help assess the effectiveness of treatments that affect protein levels.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma, which is sent to the lab for analysis. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised depending on your specific test instructions.
What to Expect After the Test
You may experience mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site. Results are usually available within a few days. Follow-up with your healthcare provider if you have questions about your results or need further testing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein electrophoresis results can indicate underlying health issues such as kidney disease, where proteins like albumin may be lost in urine (proteinuria). It can also reveal conditions like multiple myeloma, where abnormal proteins (M proteins) accumulate in the blood. Changes in protein fractions may also signal liver disease, inflammation, or immune system disorders.
Short name
BCG Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my results?
What does each protein fraction represent?
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