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Lymph Node Lymphatic Fluid Protein Electrophoresis (ELPH)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test analyzes proteins in fluid collected from a lymph node biopsy to help diagnose conditions like lymphoma, infections, or inflammatory diseases.

Quick summary

["Protein patterns can reveal hidden causes of swelling, immune issues, or cancer."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
20616-9
Short code
Lymphs IgM/lymph NFr Spec
Synonyms
Lymphs IgM/lymph NFr Spec
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

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have unexplained swelling, a lump in your lymph nodes, or symptoms like fever, weight loss, or night sweats that suggest an underlying issue affecting your lymphatic system.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll likely have a small incision to drain fluid from a lymph node under local anesthesia. The procedure takes minutes, and you may feel mild discomfort afterward.

What the Results Mean

Results show protein levels and patterns, such as albumin, globulins, or markers of inflammation or malignancy. Abnormal findings may point to conditions like lymphoma, infections, or autoimmune diseases.

Common Conditions It Helps Diagnose

This test helps identify causes of persistent lymph node swelling, evaluate suspected lymphoma, or assess immune system dysfunctions like chronic inflammation or immunodeficiency.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Lymph Node Lymph Fluid Protein Profile

Frequently asked questions

How is this test different from a standard blood protein test?
Unlike blood tests, which measure proteins circulating in your bloodstream, this test specifically analyzes proteins in fluid directly taken from a lymph node, offering more targeted insights into localized lymphatic issues.
What if my lymph nodes are not swollen?
Even if your lymph nodes aren’t visibly swollen, fluid from a lymph node can still be analyzed for protein patterns to detect subtle abnormalities in immune function or cancer progression.
Can this test replace a biopsy?
While fluid analysis provides important clues, a biopsy (removing a small tissue sample) is often needed for definitive diagnosis. This test is typically used alongside other tests for a full evaluation.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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