Serum or Plasma Protein Electrophoresis with Bromocresol Green Staining
This test measures the distribution of different protein types in your blood, often used to check for conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or kidney problems.
["Helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may signal underlying health issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35890-3
- Short code
- RF Guided Abd Bx
- Synonyms
- RF Guided Abd Bx
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- rf
- CPT
- 86430
- 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 Protein Electrophoresis Used For?
Protein electrophoresis separates blood proteins into fractions (e.g., albumin, globulins) using an electric field. Bromocresol green dye binds to proteins, allowing visualization of their concentrations. This helps detect imbalances that may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or chronic inflammation.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn, and the serum or plasma is placed in a gel. An electric current runs through the gel, causing proteins to migrate based on size and charge. The dye highlights protein bands, which are then analyzed for patterns.
Sample Preparation and Testing Process
No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised if your doctor specifies it. The test is typically done in a lab and results may take 1–3 days depending on the lab’s workflow.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions like multiple myeloma (cancer of plasma cells), liver disease, kidney disease, or certain autoimmune disorders. Abnormal bands may suggest protein overproduction or deficiencies.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Protein electrophoresis is critical for diagnosing and managing conditions where protein patterns deviate from normal. For example, multiple myeloma often shows a distinct spike in monoclonal proteins, while liver/kidney disorders may alter albumin or globulin levels. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis (BCG)
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What do abnormal results mean?
Do I need to prepare for 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