Bromocresol Purple Protein Electrophoresis (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures protein distribution across different fractions in your blood, often used to check for conditions affecting protein balance, such as liver disease or certain immune disorders.
["This test helps identify protein abnormalities that may signal underlying health issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13530-1
- Short code
- nRBC # Fld Manual
- Synonyms
- nRBC # Fld Manual
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- manual-count
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- 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
The test separates proteins in your serum or plasma into distinct bands using bromocresol purple dye. Each band corresponds to a different protein group, including albumin, alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins. These bands help assess protein concentration and potential imbalances.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis), chronic inflammation, or certain types of immune system disorders. It can also help evaluate protein malnutrition or track treatment responses.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is then separated into serum (after clotting) or plasma (after centrifugation). The sample is sent to a lab for electrophoresis, where proteins are separated by size and charge using an electric field.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is particularly useful for detecting abnormal protein patterns, such as elevated or low levels of specific protein fractions. For example, it may show high alpha-globulins in inflammatory conditions or low albumin in liver disease.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal results may indicate conditions affecting protein synthesis, breakdown, or transport in the body. For instance, low albumin levels could signal liver or kidney problems, while unusual band patterns might suggest immune disorders or metabolic diseases. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
Short name
BCP Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a normal result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes 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