Serum or Plasma Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative) with Bromocresol Green/Blue Staining
This test measures the distribution of different protein types in your blood, often used to identify unusual patterns that may signal conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or other protein-related disorders.
["This test helps doctors check for abnormal protein levels that could indicate hidden health issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 96272-0
- Short code
- MLH3 Ag Ca spec Ql ImStn
- Synonyms
- MLH3 Ag Ca spec Ql ImStn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 1.5
- Ref high
- 9
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- immune-stain
- CPT
- 83002
- 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
Protein electrophoresis separates blood proteins into fractions (e.g., albumin, globulins) based on size and charge. Bromocresol dyes (green/blue) bind to specific protein groups, revealing their relative amounts. This qualitative method doesn’t provide exact quantities but highlights shifts in protein composition.
Why It’s Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, or signs of organ dysfunction (e.g., liver or kidney). It’s also used as a screening tool for conditions like monoclonal gammopathy or systemic diseases affecting protein synthesis.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The serum or plasma is then processed and stained with bromocresol dye. Results are interpreted visually by comparing patterns to standard references.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about medications (e.g., blood thinners) or recent illnesses that might affect protein levels.
Reference range
Follicular: 1.5-9.0 mIU/mLN/A
For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
What if my results are abnormal?
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