Plasma Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the types and amounts of proteins in your blood plasma using electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins based on size and charge.
["Helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may signal conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or other blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 51626-0
- Short code
- PT 1:4 NP 1h separate PPP
- Synonyms
- PT 1:4 NP 1h separate PPP
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- coag-tissue-factor-induced-factor-substitution-after-addition-of-normal-plasma-h-post-incubation-separate-tubes
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- 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
Electrophoresis separates blood proteins into distinct bands (fractions) based on their electrical charge and molecular weight. Key fractions include albumin, alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins. Abnormal patterns may indicate conditions affecting protein production or breakdown.
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions such as multiple myeloma, Waldenström macroglobulinemia, liver disease, or other protein-related disorders. It’s also used in screening for certain genetic or metabolic disorders.
Sample Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in the arm. Plasma is separated from blood cells and prepared for electrophoresis. The test is qualitative, meaning it provides a visual pattern rather than specific numeric values.
Common Conditions Monitored
Abnormal results may show increased or decreased levels of specific protein fractions. For example, a high gamma-globulin fraction could suggest immune system disorders, while unusual bands may indicate myeloma or other malignancies.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Qualitative Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What Does It Mean If My Results Are Abnormal?
How Long Does It Take to Get 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