Protein Electrophoresis, Serum or Plasma
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, separated by size and charge. It helps identify abnormalities in protein distribution, which can signal conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, or certain cancers.
["This test helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting protein balance in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5901-4
- Short code
- PT PPP Cont
- Synonyms
- PT 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
- 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 splits blood proteins into fractions, including albumin, globulins (such as immunoglobulins), and other smaller/mid-sized proteins. These fractions may vary in cases of inflammation, infection, or organ dysfunction.
Why Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions like multiple myeloma (cancer of plasma cells), nephrotic syndrome (kidney disease), or liver disease. It can also help evaluate protein-losing disorders or autoimmune conditions.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed into either serum (after clotting) or plasma (anticoagulated). The proteins are separated using an electric field in a gel medium.
Interpreting Results
Results show bands representing protein bands, with relative densities indicating protein concentration. Abnormal patterns may appear as smears, shifts, or missing bands, which need evaluation by a healthcare provider.
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.
Abnormal protein electrophoresis can reveal underlying health issues, such as elevated alpha- or beta-globulins (possible myeloma or infections), low albumin (kidney/liver disease), or unusual patterns (e.g., paraproteins in multiple myeloma). Always discuss results with your doctor for personalized interpretation.
Short name
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