Protein Electrophoresis (Serum)
This test measures the different types of proteins found in your blood serum, helping identify abnormalities in protein distribution that may signal conditions like kidney disease, liver issues, or multiple myeloma.
["This test helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting protein balance in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 33883-0
- Short code
- PT 1h p 1:4 NP PPP Cont
- Synonyms
- PT 1h p 1:4 NP PPP Cont
- 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-h-post-incubation-after-addition-of-normal-plasma
- 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 Proteins Are Measured?
Protein electrophoresis separates blood proteins into distinct fractions, including albumin, alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins. Each fraction may reflect underlying health conditions differently.
Why Is This Test Done?
Doctors may order this test to check for conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver disease, infections, or certain cancers. It can also help evaluate protein disorders or monitor treatment responses.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The serum (liquid part after clotting) is then analyzed to separate proteins by size and charge.
Common Conditions Monitored
Abnormal protein patterns can indicate conditions such as multiple myeloma (excess gamma-globulins), nephrotic syndrome (low albumin), or inflammatory diseases (elevated acute-phase proteins).
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 of protein electrophoresis includes diagnosing and managing conditions that alter protein synthesis, degradation, or transport in the body, such as hereditary disorders or metabolic diseases.
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a protein electrophoresis test tell me about my health?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy