Protein Electrophoresis (Serum/Plasma) with 24-Hour Urine Collection for Proteinuria Screening
This test measures protein patterns in your blood and checks for unusual amounts of protein in your urine over 24 hours, which may indicate kidney issues or other health conditions.
["Helps identify protein imbalances that could signal kidney disease or other disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 81231-3
- Short code
- Prot Elph Pnl 24h Ur Elph
- Synonyms
- Prot Elph Pnl 24h Ur Elph
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- 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
- 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 This Test Measures
The blood test evaluates the distribution of different protein types (such as albumin, globulins, and other fractions) using electrophoresis. This helps identify abnormalities in protein composition that may not be detected by general protein measurements alone.
Why Your Urine Sample Was Collected
The 24-hour urine collection assesses total protein excretion, which can reveal chronic kidney damage or conditions like nephrotic syndrome by showing whether protein is being lost in urine beyond normal levels.
How Results May Affect Your Care
Abnormal results may prompt further testing, such as kidney function tests or specialized urine analysis, to determine the underlying cause of protein loss or abnormal protein patterns.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
Protein electrophoresis in blood and urine may show abnormal patterns due to kidney diseases (e.g., glomerulonephritis), liver disorders, multiple myeloma, or certain infections.
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.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis Profile
Frequently asked questions
Why might I need this test?
What does a normal result mean?
Can I eat or drink anything 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy