Protein Electrophoresis (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, including albumin, globulins, and other fractions, which helps assess protein balance and potential abnormalities in your immune system or liver function.
["This test helps identify protein disorders or conditions affecting blood protein levels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 27824-2
- Short code
- Pro Frg1+2 Ag SerPl IA-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Pro Frg1+2 Ag SerPl IA-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- 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 This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions such as kidney disease, liver problems, multiple myeloma, or other protein-related disorders. It can also help evaluate symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or swelling.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your lab requires it, but this is rare for routine protein electrophoresis. Bring any medications or questions to your appointment.
During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is then sent to a lab where it is analyzed using electrophoresis, a technique that separates proteins based on size and charge.
What the Results Mean
Results show the distribution of proteins across different fractions (e.g., albumin, alpha, beta, gamma globulins). Abnormal patterns may indicate conditions like hypoalbuminemia, monoclonal gammopathy, or systemic inflammation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Protein electrophoresis is critical for detecting conditions like multiple myeloma (excess monoclonal proteins), liver disease (reduced albumin), or immune disorders (elevated globulins). It also aids in monitoring treatment responses in chronic conditions.
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal protein levels?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before 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