Bromocresol Purple Protein Electrophoresis (Serum)
This test measures the distribution of proteins in your blood using a technique called protein electrophoresis. It helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may suggest conditions like multiple myeloma, amyloidosis, or other protein disorders.
["This test can help diagnose or monitor conditions affecting blood protein balance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49675-2
- Short code
- LPT 10 umol Be 7D Bld-aCnc
- Synonyms
- LPT 10 umol Be 7D Bld-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swelling in your limbs, or a history of conditions like multiple myeloma or amyloidosis. It may also be used as part of a routine check for certain blood disorders or to monitor treatment progress.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw, but this depends on your provider’s instructions. Bring your medical records or any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.
How the Test Is Performed
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. The blood sample is then processed and analyzed in a lab to separate proteins by size and charge. The results are compared to standard patterns to identify any abnormalities.
Possible Results and Interpretation
The test produces a graph showing the distribution of different protein fractions (e.g., albumin, globulins). Abnormal peaks or patterns may indicate conditions like monoclonal gammopathy, where an abnormal protein (often an antibody) dominates the blood. Your provider will discuss these findings with you.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
BCP Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
This test is crucial for diagnosing conditions where abnormal proteins accumulate in the blood, such as multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells) or light-chain amyloidosis. It may also help rule out other disorders affecting protein metabolism or detect early signs of systemic diseases.
An abnormal result may suggest an underlying condition affecting protein production or distribution, such as a plasma cell disorder or a metabolic issue. Your provider will review the results with you and may recommend further testing or adjustments to your treatment plan.
The frequency depends on your health condition and treatment. If you have a known disorder like multiple myeloma, your provider may order this test regularly to monitor disease progression or response to treatment. Otherwise, it’s often done only when symptoms or lab findings suggest it’s needed.
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