Protein Electrophoresis, Serum
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, including albumin, globulins, and other proteins, using electrophoresis. It helps identify abnormalities in protein distribution that may indicate conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, or certain cancers.
["This test helps doctors diagnose and monitor conditions affecting protein balance in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49503-6
- Short code
- p-ANCA atypical Titr Ser IF
- Synonyms
- p-ANCA atypical Titr Ser IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 7
- Ref high
- 56
- Critical range
- 0.5 N/A – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302773008
- 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
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions that alter protein levels, such as kidney disease (e.g., nephrotic syndrome), liver disease, multiple myeloma, or other blood disorders. It can also help monitor treatment progress for these conditions.
What Does the Test Measure?
Electrophoresis separates proteins in your serum based on size and charge. The results show bands representing different protein groups, including albumin (fast-moving) and globulins (slower-moving). Abnormal patterns may suggest specific health issues.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The serum portion (liquid after clotting) is then analyzed in a lab to separate proteins.
What Are Common Findings?
Abnormal results may show shifts in protein bands, such as high or low albumin, increased or decreased globulins, or unusual protein spikes. These changes can guide further testing or treatment adjustments.
Reference range
Adult males: 7-56 U/L; Adult females: 7-43 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.
This test plays a key role in diagnosing conditions like multiple myeloma (cancer of plasma cells), kidney disease, liver disease, and certain autoimmune disorders. It also helps track disease progression or response to treatment by comparing protein patterns over time.
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a protein electrophoresis test involve?
How long does it take to get results?
Can lifestyle changes affect protein electrophoresis 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