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Protein Electrophoresis (Serum)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, including albumin and globulins, which help your body function properly.

Quick summary

["Understanding your protein levels can help identify health issues like kidney disease, liver problems, or infections."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5959-2
Short code
PT imm NP PPP
Synonyms
PT imm NP 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-immediately-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 fractions based on size and electrical charge. Key components include albumin, alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins. Abnormal patterns may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or chronic inflammation.

Why Is This Test Done?

Doctors may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting protein balance, such as kidney disease, liver disorders, or certain cancers. It can also help assess nutritional status or detect immune system issues.

Preparation and Sample Collection

No special preparation is needed, but fasting may not be required unless instructed by your healthcare provider. Blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm, and sent to the lab for analysis.

What to Expect After the Test

You may feel slight discomfort or bruising at the injection site, but results are typically ready within a few days. Follow-up may be needed if results are outside expected ranges.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: plasma

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Protein Electrophoresis

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my results?
Results are usually available within a few days to a week, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will contact you if additional follow-up is needed.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No special diet is required unless your doctor specifies otherwise. However, check with them if you have questions about timing around meals.
What does it mean if my protein levels are abnormal?
Abnormal results may point to conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, infections, or certain cancers. Your doctor will explain what these findings mean in the context of your overall health.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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