Serum Protein Electrophoresis (Quantitative)
This test measures the distribution of different protein types in your blood serum using electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins based on size and charge.
["This test helps identify abnormal protein patterns, often linked to conditions like multiple myeloma or other blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 59802-9
- Short code
- M Protein 4 MFr Ur Elph
- Synonyms
- M Protein 4 MFr Ur Elph
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 7.35
- Ref high
- 7.45
- Critical range
- 7.2 N/A – 7.6 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- electrophoresis
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, frequent infections, or swollen lymph nodes. It’s also used to monitor conditions affecting protein levels, such as kidney disease or liver disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll typically have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw blood. The process takes about 5 minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch or discomfort.
What the Test Results Mean
The test separates proteins into bands (e.g., albumin, globulins) and measures their relative amounts. Abnormal patterns may indicate conditions like monoclonal gammopathy (e.g., multiple myeloma) or chronic inflammation.
Common Conditions Linked to Abnormal Results
High levels of certain proteins (e.g., Bence Jones proteins) may signal multiple myeloma or other plasma cell disorders. Low albumin could suggest liver disease or malnutrition, while elevated globulins may point to infections or autoimmune conditions.
Reference range
NCBI: pH 7.35-7.45N/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low protein band mean on my test results?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or medications affect 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy