Protein Electrophoresis on Serum (Qualitative)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood serum using electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins based on size and charge. It helps identify abnormalities in protein distribution, which can indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or kidney problems.
["Electrophoresis helps doctors spot unusual protein patterns that may signal hidden health issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14012-9
- Short code
- PA IgG Bld FC-aCnc
- Synonyms
- PA IgG Bld FC-aCnc
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 82784
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Protein Electrophoresis Used For?
Protein electrophoresis is primarily used to diagnose and monitor conditions affecting protein levels. It can help identify conditions such as multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells), benign monoclonal gammopathies, liver or kidney disease, and certain autoimmune disorders. The test also assists in evaluating protein abnormalities in hereditary conditions.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from your arm. The serum portion is then separated and placed in an electric field to sort proteins by size and charge. A gel or paper strip shows bands representing different protein groups, including albumin, alpha, beta, and gamma globulins.
What Might Abnormal Results Indicate?
Abnormal results may show an extra band (monoclonal spike) suggesting conditions like multiple myeloma or Waldenström macroglobulinemia. Reduced albumin levels could indicate liver disease or malnutrition, while elevated gamma globulins might point to autoimmune diseases or infections.
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on lab processing times. Follow-up with your healthcare provider is needed to interpret the findings and determine next steps.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Protein electrophoresis is a key diagnostic tool for detecting abnormal protein patterns that may not be visible in routine blood tests. It helps differentiate between benign and malignant conditions by showing precise protein distributions, guiding treatment decisions and monitoring disease progression.
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis (Qual)
Frequently asked questions
Why was I asked to have this test?
What should I do if I notice unusual symptoms before my test?
Do I need to prepare for 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