: Protein Electrophoresis, Serum
: A serum protein electrophoresis test separates the proteins in a blood sample into groups based on their electrical charge and size, helping your care team see whether the overall pattern of proteins is normal or abnormal.
[": Protein electrophoresis gives a broad picture of the major protein fractions in your blood rather than measuring a single substance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 50191-6
- Short code
- OB Pnl Gast
- Synonyms
- OB Pnl Gast
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- 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
: Your blood contains many different proteins, including albumin and a group of proteins called globulins. This test uses an electrical field to spread these proteins out into distinct bands or fractions so each group can be looked at separately.
: Why Your Clinician May Order It
: This test is often used when a provider suspects an unusual protein pattern, wants to investigate abnormal total protein or albumin results, or is monitoring a known condition that affects protein production. It can help screen for and follow certain blood and immune system conditions.
: What the Procedure Is Like
: The test requires a standard blood draw, usually from a vein in your arm. No special preparation is typically needed unless your provider gives other instructions, and the sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis.
: How to Understand Your Results
: Results are reported as the relative amounts of each protein fraction rather than a single number. Your clinician interprets the pattern alongside your symptoms, other lab tests, and history; specific numeric ranges vary by laboratory, so discuss what your report means with your provider.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
: Protein electrophoresis can reveal patterns that suggest inflammation, infection, kidney or liver problems, nutritional issues, or abnormal protein production by immune cells. It is a screening and monitoring tool, so an abnormal result usually prompts additional testing and clinical evaluation rather than standing alone as a diagnosis.
Short name
: SPEP
Frequently asked questions
: Does this test diagnose a specific disease on its own?
: Do I need to fast before this test?
: How long does it take to get 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