Serum Albumin Electrophoresis
This test measures the protein distribution in your blood using electrophoresis, a technique that separates proteins based on size and charge. It helps identify conditions affecting albumin or other blood proteins.
["Electrophoresis helps diagnose protein disorders and assesses how well your blood proteins are balanced."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2877-9
- Short code
- Prealb SerPl Elph-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Prealb SerPl Elph-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- electrophoresis
- 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 Does This Test Measure?
Albumin electrophoresis separates blood proteins into distinct bands, revealing the relative amounts of albumin and other globulins (e.g., alpha, beta, gamma globulins). This can help detect abnormalities like hypoalbuminemia, dysproteinemias, or multiple myeloma.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss, or if they suspect conditions like liver disease, kidney problems, or certain cancers that affect protein levels.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The serum (liquid part of blood after clotting) is then analyzed to separate proteins using an electric field.
What Are Common Conditions Monitored?
This test helps diagnose or monitor conditions such as nephrotic syndrome (kidney disease causing protein loss), chronic liver disease, multiple myeloma (cancer of plasma cells), or other protein-related disorders.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein patterns on electrophoresis can signal underlying health issues, such as excessive protein breakdown, liver dysfunction, or abnormal protein production. For example, low albumin may indicate malnutrition or kidney disease, while unusual bands may suggest immune system disorders or malignancies.
Short name
Albumin Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal result mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Can lifestyle changes affect 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