Lanthanum-Protein Electrophoresis (Serum)
This test measures the distribution of different protein fractions in your blood serum using electrophoresis, a technique that separates proteins based on size and charge. Lanthanum is often used to enhance the visibility of certain protein bands, particularly in detecting abnormalities like dysalbuminemic hyperlipoproteinemia.
["This test helps identify protein patterns that may indicate underlying conditions affecting your blood proteins."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 55785-0
- Short code
- LA Nt HPL imm 1:2 saline PPP
- Synonyms
- LA Nt HPL imm 1:2 saline PPP
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- true
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- coag
- 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 into distinct bands, each representing different protein types (e.g., albumin, globulins). Lanthanum may be added to improve contrast for specific proteins, such as those with abnormal binding properties. The test provides a visual profile of protein distribution, which can be analyzed for qualitative differences.
Why It’s Performed
This test is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions like dysalbuminemic hyperlipoproteinemia, where abnormal albumin variants are present. It may also be part of broader evaluations for conditions affecting protein metabolism, such as certain liver diseases, kidney disorders, or inherited protein abnormalities.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in the arm. The serum (liquid part after clotting) is separated and processed for electrophoresis. Lanthanum may be added to the sample before analysis to enhance detection of specific protein bands.
Common Uses and Conditions
This test is particularly useful for identifying qualitative protein abnormalities that standard protein assays might miss. It helps clinicians assess conditions where protein structure or binding properties differ from normal, such as in hereditary disorders or metabolic diseases.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Lanthanum-enhanced protein electrophoresis is primarily a qualitative tool. It can reveal subtle shifts in protein composition that may not be detected by quantitative tests alone. For example, it may help confirm diagnoses where abnormal protein variants (e.g., in lipid metabolism or transport) are suspected but not clearly identified by routine lab work.
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis with Lanthanum
Frequently asked questions
What does a 'lanthanum' enhancement mean in this test?
Can this test replace other protein tests like albumin or globulin levels?
How long does it take to get results from 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