Protein Electrophoresis (Serum) with Bromocresol Green or Bromocresol Purple Staining
This test measures the distribution of different protein fractions in your blood serum, often used to identify abnormalities in protein composition, such as those seen in conditions like multiple myeloma or liver disease.
["This test helps diagnose and monitor protein-related disorders by showing how proteins separate in an electric field."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12848-8
- Short code
- Prot sp6 DiafP-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Prot sp6 DiafP-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 10
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82105
- SNOMED
- 394971007
- 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 investigate symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swelling, or changes in kidney or liver function. It can also be used to monitor conditions like multiple myeloma, amyloidosis, or certain types of autoimmune diseases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Avoid strenuous activity the day before. Bring any medications you’re currently taking.
How the Test Is Performed
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The blood sample is then sent to a lab where it is separated into different protein fractions using an electric field and stained with bromocresol green or purple to visualize the results.
What the Results Mean
The results show the relative amounts of proteins in different regions of the electrophoresis pattern, such as albumin, globulins (including immunoglobulins), and other fractions. Abnormal patterns may indicate conditions affecting protein production, storage, or breakdown.
Reference range
Normal: <10 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation required. For PSA, avoid sexual activity for 24-48 hours before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What could my results indicate if they are abnormal?
How often should I get this test?
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