Protein Electrophoresis (Serum) with Bromocresol Green (BCG) Staining
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, including albumin, globulins, and other fractions, using a specialized staining technique to help identify abnormalities in protein distribution.
Helps diagnose conditions affecting protein balance in your blood, such as kidney disease or liver disorders.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 101585-8
- Short code
- M avium paraTB DNA Ct Stl Qn NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- M avium paraTB DNA Ct Stl Qn NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- stool
- Container
- Clean container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- Specimen volume
- 5 g
- Stability
- Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, multiple myeloma, or other disorders that alter protein levels in the blood. It can also help monitor treatment progress for certain conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your lab requires a fasting sample, but this is not always the case for protein electrophoresis. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.
During the Test
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then placed in a gel and subjected to an electric current to separate proteins by size and charge. The BCG dye highlights different protein bands for analysis.
What the Results Mean
The results show the relative amounts of each protein band. Abnormal patterns may indicate conditions like hypoalbuminemia (low albumin), hyperglobulinemia (high globulins), or signs of inflammation, infection, or cancer.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
This test plays a key role in diagnosing and managing conditions such as chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, multiple myeloma, and autoimmune diseases. It can also help detect subtle protein abnormalities that may not be picked up by routine blood tests alone.
The test results are usually available within 24–48 hours. Your provider will discuss the findings with you, including any follow-up steps needed.
No, protein electrophoresis is not a routine screening test for most people. It’s usually ordered based on specific symptoms, lab abnormalities, or medical history.
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