Protein Electrophoresis, Serum (Qualitative)
This test measures the distribution of different protein types in your blood serum using electrophoresis, a technique that separates proteins based on size and charge. It helps identify abnormalities in protein levels that may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or kidney problems.
["This test can help diagnose or monitor certain blood disorders by revealing unusual protein patterns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 6011-1
- Short code
- Prot C CF PPP-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Prot C CF PPP-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Proteins Does This Test Measure?
Electrophoresis splits blood proteins into distinct bands, each representing groups like albumin, alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins. Abnormal bands may signal conditions affecting protein production or breakdown, such as infections, cancers, or metabolic disorders.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swelling, or if they suspect conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or chronic infections. It’s also used to monitor treatment progress in some cases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may fast for 8–12 hours before the draw if your lab requires it. Wear a loose shirt for easy access. Bring any medications or questions to your appointment.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is then processed in a lab to separate proteins. Results are qualitative (descriptive) rather than numerical, showing relative amounts of each protein band.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein patterns can indicate underlying health issues. For example, high gamma-globulins may suggest chronic infections or autoimmune diseases, while unusual spikes in other bands could signal cancers (e.g., multiple myeloma), liver disease, or kidney problems. Your doctor will interpret results in context with your symptoms and medical history.
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis (Qual)
Frequently asked questions
What does a ‘qualitative’ result mean?
How long will I wait for results?
Can I fast 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