Protein Electrophoresis, Serum (Qualitative)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood serum using gel electrophoresis. It helps identify abnormalities in protein distribution, which can indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or other disorders.
["This test helps doctors diagnose and monitor protein-related health issues by separating blood proteins for closer examination."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 95170-7
- Short code
- M gallisep DNA Ct Spec Qn NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- M gallisep DNA Ct Spec Qn NAA+probe
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- 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 Proteins Does This Test Measure?
Electrophoresis separates proteins based on their size and electrical charge. The gel shows bands representing albumin, alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins. Abnormal bands or patterns may suggest underlying conditions.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Doctors order this test to investigate symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swelling, or high protein levels in urine. It’s also used to monitor conditions like multiple myeloma, amyloidosis, or chronic liver disease.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn, and serum is separated. The serum is then applied to a gel and subjected to an electric current, causing proteins to migrate to different positions. The pattern is analyzed under UV light.
What Are Common Findings?
Normal results show distinct bands for each protein group. Abnormal findings may include extra bands (e.g., monoclonal spikes), reduced albumin, or increased gamma-globulins, which can point to specific health concerns.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test is critical for diagnosing conditions like multiple myeloma (where abnormal proteins called monoclonal gammopathies appear), liver disease (affecting albumin and globulins), and inflammatory disorders. It helps track disease progression or response to treatment by monitoring protein patterns over time.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive or abnormal result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect this test results?
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