Serum or Plasma Protein Electrophoresis with Bromocresol Green (BCG) Dye Binding Assay
This test measures the distribution of different protein types in your blood, often used to check for conditions like multiple myeloma or other protein abnormalities.
["Helps identify unusual protein patterns that may signal blood disorders or other health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 74488-8
- Short code
- p63 + SM-MHC + CK8 Ag Tiss ImStn
- Synonyms
- p63 + SM-MHC + CK8 Ag Tiss ImStn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 22
- Ref high
- 198
- Critical range
- — – 10000 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- immune-stain
- CPT
- 82553
- 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
Protein electrophoresis separates blood proteins into fractions (such as albumin, globulins, and others) based on size and charge. The BCG dye binding assay quantifies protein concentrations in each fraction, highlighting any abnormal distributions.
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like multiple myeloma, Waldenström macroglobulinemia, or other plasma cell disorders. It can also help assess kidney disease or detect rare protein abnormalities.
Sample Collection and Preparation
Blood is drawn from a vein, typically in the arm. The sample is processed to separate serum or plasma, then analyzed using electrophoresis and the BCG dye method to measure protein fractions.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test helps detect or track conditions where protein levels or patterns deviate from normal, such as monoclonal gammopathy (an abnormal protein in blood) or systemic diseases affecting protein synthesis.
Reference range
Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: Abnormal results may indicate underlying disorders like multiple myeloma, where an abnormal protein spike (e.g., M-protein) suggests a tumor of plasma cells. Low albumin or altered globulin ratios may signal kidney disease, liver issues, or immune system dysfunction. Always discuss findings with your doctor for proper interpretation.
Short name
BCG Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does a normal result mean?
Can I eat or drink before 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