Serum or Plasma Protein Electrophoresis with Bromocresol Green (BCG) Dye Binding Assay
This test measures the distribution of different protein fractions in your blood, often used to identify abnormalities in protein composition that may suggest conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or other metabolic disorders.
["Helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting protein balance in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5029-4
- Short code
- N men rRNA Spec Ql Probe
- Synonyms
- N men rRNA Spec Ql Probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe
- 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 Does This Test Measure?
The test separates blood proteins into distinct bands (fractions) based on size and charge. The bromocresol green dye binds to specific protein groups, allowing for qualitative assessment of protein concentrations in each fraction. This includes albumin, alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins.
Why Is This Test Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to investigate symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swelling, or abnormal lab results. It can also be used to monitor conditions such as chronic kidney disease, liver disease, or to check for signs of protein disorders like multiple myeloma or amyloidosis.
Common Conditions Monitored or Diagnosed
This test is particularly useful in diagnosing conditions where protein patterns differ from normal, such as monoclonal gammopathy (e.g., multiple myeloma), liver or kidney disease, or certain inflammatory or infectious diseases. It helps assess the presence of abnormal proteins that may not be detected by routine blood tests alone.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically required. You may be asked to fast before the test if it involves a blood draw, but this is not always the case for protein electrophoresis. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Protein electrophoresis with BCG dye binding is critical for identifying abnormal protein patterns that may indicate underlying diseases. For example, the presence of a single, sharp peak (spike) in the gamma region can suggest multiple myeloma, while changes in albumin or globulin levels may indicate liver or kidney dysfunction. Early detection can guide treatment decisions and improve outcomes.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis (BCG)
Frequently asked questions
What does a protein electrophoresis test involve?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can fasting 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy