Protein Electrophoresis (Serum)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, including albumin and globulins, which help your body function properly.
["Protein electrophoresis helps identify imbalances that may signal conditions like liver disease, kidney problems, or infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 105049-1
- Short code
- PT 2h p 1:1 NP PPP Cont
- Synonyms
- PT 2h p 1:1 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
Why Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order this test to check for abnormal protein levels that could indicate health issues such as liver disease, kidney disease, or certain types of cancer. It can also help diagnose conditions like multiple myeloma or autoimmune disorders.
What Does the Test Involve?
A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then separated into different protein fractions using an electric field in a gel-like medium. The results show the distribution of these proteins.
What Are Common Findings?
Typically, albumin appears as a distinct band near the bottom of the gel, while globulins (including alpha, beta, and gamma fractions) appear higher. Abnormal patterns may show shifts or bands that suggest underlying health concerns.
How Is the Test Performed?
The test involves applying the separated serum proteins to a gel and applying an electric current to separate them based on size and charge. The results are visualized as bands or zones on the gel.
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: Protein electrophoresis is crucial for diagnosing conditions affecting protein production or breakdown. For example, elevated gamma globulins may indicate multiple myeloma or chronic infections, while low albumin could signal liver or kidney disease. It helps monitor treatment progress and identify subtle protein imbalances that standard tests might miss.
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