Protein Electrophoresis, Serum
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood serum, helping identify abnormalities in protein distribution that may signal conditions like kidney disease, liver issues, or certain cancers.
["This test helps doctors check for protein imbalances that could indicate health problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 104436-1
- Short code
- PV1 Ab sp1 Titr Ser IA
- Synonyms
- PV1 Ab sp1 Titr Ser IA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- 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 healthcare provider may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting protein levels in your blood, such as kidney disease, liver disorders, or multiple myeloma. It can also help evaluate symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or swelling.
What Does the Test Involve?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The serum portion is separated and analyzed using electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins based on size and charge. This process helps identify patterns or abnormalities in protein bands.
What Are Common Findings?
Abnormal patterns may show increased or decreased levels of specific proteins, such as albumin, globulins, or immunoglobulins. For example, low albumin could indicate liver or kidney disease, while unusual globulin bands might suggest autoimmune disorders or infections.
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you during your follow-up visit.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Protein electrophoresis is crucial for diagnosing and managing conditions like multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells), kidney disease (e.g., nephrotic syndrome), liver diseases (e.g., cirrhosis), and certain autoimmune disorders. It can also help monitor treatment responses or track disease progression.
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a protein electrophoresis test measure?
How is the blood sample prepared for 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