Serum Albumin by Electrophoresis (24-hour Profile)
This test measures the distribution of albumin and other proteins in your blood using electrophoresis, often as part of a 24-hour urine collection to assess protein loss in urine.
["Helps identify protein abnormalities in blood and urine that may signal kidney or liver issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13985-7
- Short code
- Prealb 24h MFr Ur Elph
- Synonyms
- Prealb 24h MFr Ur Elph
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 7.35
- Ref high
- 7.45
- Critical range
- 7.2 N/A – 7.6 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- electrophoresis
- 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
What This Test Measures
Electrophoresis separates blood proteins into bands based on size and charge. Albumin is the most abundant protein and appears as a distinct band. This test may also detect other proteins or fragments that could indicate conditions like kidney disease, liver dysfunction, or certain metabolic disorders.
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like swelling, frequent urination with protein in urine, unexplained weight loss, or if tests suggest abnormal protein levels in your blood or urine.
Sample Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in the arm. If a 24-hour urine collection is involved, you’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours in a special container. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.
Common Conditions Monitored
Albumin electrophoresis helps diagnose or monitor conditions such as nephrotic syndrome (kidney disease causing heavy protein loss), liver cirrhosis, or conditions affecting protein metabolism.
Reference range
NCBI: pH 7.35-7.45N/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Albumin Electrophoresis Profile
Frequently asked questions
How long will it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
What does a low or high albumin level mean?
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