Protein Electrophoresis (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, including albumin and globulins, which helps assess protein balance and potential conditions like kidney disease or liver dysfunction.
["This test helps doctors identify protein imbalances that may signal underlying health issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40098-6
- Short code
- PT 1D p chal PPP
- Synonyms
- PT 1D p chal PPP
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 44
- Ref high
- 147
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- coag-tissue-factor-induced
- CPT
- 84075
- SNOMED
- 27550007
- 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 blood disorders. It can also help evaluate protein malnutrition or detect abnormal protein production.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.
What the Results Mean
Results show the distribution of proteins in your blood, such as albumin (which keeps blood vessels intact) and globulins (which support immunity and clotting). Abnormal patterns may indicate conditions like hypoalbuminemia, multiple myeloma, or inflammatory diseases.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used to track protein levels in chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, or autoimmune disorders. It may also help guide treatment decisions for conditions like nephrotic syndrome or monoclonal gammopathy.
Reference range
Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Protein electrophoresis is critical for diagnosing and managing conditions where protein levels or patterns deviate from normal. For example, a high globulin level might suggest chronic infection or inflammation, while an abnormal albumin-to-globulin ratio could point to liver or kidney disease. Early detection allows for timely interventions.
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a protein electrophoresis test measure?
How long does it take to get results from 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