: Serum Protein Electrophoresis

: What This Test Measures

: Proteins in a serum sample carry different electrical charges and sizes, so they can be separated into bands or fractions such as albumin and globulins. The test reports the pattern of these fractions, which helps your clinician see whether any group appears increased, decreased, or otherwise unusual.

: Why It May Be Ordered

: Your clinician may order this test when routine blood work shows abnormal protein levels, when there are unexplained symptoms, or when monitoring a known condition that can affect blood proteins. It is a screening and pattern-recognition test, not a diagnosis by itself.

: How the Sample Is Collected

: This test is usually done on a routine blood draw from a vein in your arm. No special preparation is commonly required, but follow any instructions your clinician or lab gives you, especially if other tests are being drawn at the same time.

: What Results Can Mean

: Results describe the relative amounts of each protein fraction and whether the pattern looks typical. Abnormal patterns can occur with many conditions, including inflammation, infection, kidney or liver problems, and certain blood disorders. Your clinician interprets the pattern together with your history and other test results.