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Serum or plasma concentration of wavefront duration (electrophoresis-based)

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

This test measures the duration of electrical wavefronts during serum or plasma electrophoresis, a technique used to analyze protein patterns in the blood.

Quick summary

["Helps assess protein separation and potential abnormalities in blood proteins."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
9906-9
Short code
P wave dur L-III
Synonyms
P wave dur L-III
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 Is This Test Used For?

Electrophoresis separates proteins in blood based on size and charge. The wavefront duration test may be used to evaluate protein patterns, though its clinical role is less common than standard protein electrophoresis. It could be part of broader investigations for conditions affecting protein composition, such as certain blood disorders or metabolic conditions.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn, and the serum or plasma is analyzed using electrophoresis. The test measures how long electrical wavefronts persist during the separation process, which can reflect protein behavior in the sample.

Preparation and Sample Collection

No special preparation is typically required. You may fast or avoid certain medications as instructed by your healthcare provider. Blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm, and sent to the lab for analysis.

Possible Reasons for Testing

This test may be ordered as part of a broader protein electrophoresis panel to investigate conditions like hereditary angioedema, certain blood dyscrasias, or other metabolic or genetic disorders affecting protein structure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Wavefront Duration (Serum/Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor order this test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if they suspect a condition that alters protein behavior in the blood, such as hereditary disorders or rare metabolic conditions. It is less frequently used than standard protein electrophoresis but may provide additional insights in specific cases.
What does a high or low result mean?
Interpretation depends on the context of your symptoms and other test results. Abnormal wavefront durations could indicate altered protein separation patterns, which may require further evaluation by a healthcare provider.
How long will results take to return?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Follow up with your healthcare provider to discuss the results and next steps.
  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