Protein Electrophoresis (Serum or Plasma)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, helping identify abnormalities in protein distribution that may signal conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, or certain cancers.
["Protein electrophoresis helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting protein balance in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 104271-2
- Short code
- Primer set Spec
- Synonyms
- Primer set Spec
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- molgen
- 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?
Protein electrophoresis separates blood proteins into fractions (such as albumin, globulins, and other proteins) using an electric field. This helps doctors assess the composition and identify any unusual patterns that may indicate health concerns.
Why Is This Test Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions like multiple myeloma, amyloidosis, chronic kidney disease, or liver disease. It can also help evaluate symptoms such as swelling, fatigue, or unexplained weight changes.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate the serum or plasma for testing.
What Are Common Results?
Results show the distribution of proteins across different bands. Abnormal bands or shifts may indicate specific health issues, but exact interpretation depends on clinical context and comparison to your symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Protein electrophoresis is crucial for diagnosing conditions that alter protein levels. For example, an increase in certain globulins may suggest inflammation or immune disorders, while abnormal albumin levels could point to kidney or liver disease. Early detection can guide treatment decisions.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal protein electrophoresis result mean?
How often should I get this test?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy