Serum or Plasma Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the different types and amounts of proteins in your blood, separated by size and charge. It helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may suggest conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or other disorders.
["This test helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting protein levels in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 9905-1
- Short code
- P wave dur L-II
- Synonyms
- P wave dur L-II
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ekg
- 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 Does This Test Measure?
Protein electrophoresis separates blood proteins into distinct bands based on their electrical charge and size. The main protein fractions include albumin (the most abundant), alpha, beta, and gamma globulins. Abnormal bands or shifts may indicate underlying health issues.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, or signs of organ dysfunction. It’s also used to monitor conditions like multiple myeloma, chronic liver disease, or autoimmune disorders.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn, and the serum or plasma is placed on a gel. An electric current is applied, causing proteins to migrate through the gel at different speeds, creating visible bands. The results are interpreted by comparing the pattern to normal ranges.
What Does an Abnormal Result Mean?
Abnormal patterns may show excess or missing protein bands. For example, a spike in gamma globulins could suggest multiple myeloma, while a low albumin level might indicate liver or kidney disease. Your doctor will discuss these findings with you.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test plays a key role in diagnosing and managing conditions that alter protein production or distribution in the blood. It helps track disease progression or response to treatment by comparing protein patterns over time.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a protein electrophoresis test check for?
How long does it take to get results from a protein electrophoresis 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