Protein Electrophoresis (Serum)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, helping identify abnormalities in protein distribution that may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or kidney problems.
["This test helps doctors check for unusual protein patterns that might signal serious health issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 82854-1
- Short code
- PDONE+PT/THE+THF+5a-THF Ur-sRto
- Synonyms
- PDONE+PT/THE+THF+5a-THF Ur-sRto
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if they suspect conditions affecting protein production, such as certain cancers (like multiple myeloma), kidney disease, liver disease, or autoimmune disorders. It can also be used to monitor treatment progress or diagnose unexplained symptoms like fatigue or swelling.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll typically provide a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know beforehand.
What the Results Mean
Results show the distribution of proteins in your serum, including albumin, globulins, and other fractions. Abnormal patterns may point to specific conditions, but your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Common Conditions This Test Helps Diagnose
This test can help diagnose or monitor conditions like multiple myeloma (a blood cancer), kidney disease, liver disease, and certain autoimmune diseases. It may also detect signs of malnutrition or inflammation.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Protein electrophoresis is a key tool in identifying imbalances in protein levels that can signal underlying health problems. For example, elevated or abnormal globulin fractions might indicate immune system disorders, while low albumin could suggest liver or kidney dysfunction. Early detection allows for timely medical intervention.
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a protein electrophoresis test measure?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can diet 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy