Serum Protein Electrophoresis (SPE) with Fractional Quantification
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, including albumin and various globulins, often used to diagnose conditions affecting protein balance or identify abnormalities in protein distribution.
["Helps identify protein disorders and guide treatment for conditions like liver disease or kidney problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 42483-8
- Short code
- M Protein MFr Ur Elph
- Synonyms
- M Protein 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
What Proteins Are Measured?
Electrophoresis separates blood proteins based on size and electrical charge, revealing distinct bands corresponding to albumin, alpha, beta, and gamma globulins. Fractions are quantified to assess their relative amounts.
Why Is This Test Done?
Doctors order this test to evaluate protein disorders (e.g., hypoalbuminemia), detect monoclonal gammopathies (e.g., multiple myeloma), or monitor conditions like nephrotic syndrome or chronic liver disease.
Sample Preparation and Testing Process
A blood sample is drawn, and serum is separated. Proteins are then separated via electrophoresis, stained, and analyzed for band patterns and concentrations.
Common Conditions Evaluated
This test helps diagnose or monitor conditions like liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis), kidney disease (e.g., nephrotic syndrome), autoimmune disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), and certain cancers (e.g., multiple myeloma).
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: Protein Electrophoresis plays a critical role in identifying abnormal protein patterns that may signal underlying health issues. For example, elevated gamma globulins could indicate chronic infections or autoimmune diseases, while unusual bands may suggest monoclonal gammopathies requiring further investigation.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal protein electrophoresis result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or medications affect protein electrophoresis 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy