Serum or plasma concentration of a substance related to protein electrophoresis (qualitative or semi-quantitative screening)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, helping identify abnormalities that may signal conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, or certain cancers.
["Protein electrophoresis helps detect unusual protein patterns that could indicate health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 85715-1
- Short code
- Mo preg rubella symp Mother
- Synonyms
- Mo preg rubella symp Mother
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Is Protein Electrophoresis Used For?
Protein electrophoresis separates blood proteins into distinct bands based on size and charge. This process can reveal imbalances, such as high levels of abnormal proteins (e.g., monoclonal gammopathy) or low levels of essential proteins (e.g., albumin). It’s often used as a screening tool for conditions like multiple myeloma, amyloidosis, or chronic kidney disease.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from your arm. The serum or plasma is then placed in a gel and subjected to an electric current. Proteins migrate toward the opposite charge, creating visible bands that are analyzed for composition and quantity.
What Does the Test Result Mean?
Results may show distinct bands, smears, or unusual patterns. For example, a prominent band in a specific region might indicate an abnormal protein. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Common Conditions Linked to Protein Electrophoresis
This test can help diagnose or monitor conditions like multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells), kidney disease, liver disease, or certain autoimmune disorders. It may also be used to screen for hidden protein abnormalities in chronic illnesses.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Protein electrophoresis is critical for identifying protein abnormalities that standard blood tests might miss. It provides a snapshot of protein distribution, guiding further testing or treatment decisions when other markers are unclear.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis (Screening)
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What should I expect during or after the test?
Do I need to prepare for this test?
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