Serum or Plasma Bromocresol Green Protein Binding Index (BCGPBI)
This test measures how well certain proteins in your blood bind to a dye called bromocresol green. It helps assess liver function and protein metabolism.
["This test helps evaluate liver health and protein balance in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 7669-5
- Short code
- Rice BasoBnd Ab Qn
- Synonyms
- Rice BasoBnd Ab Qn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- lhr
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test uses bromocresol green dye to determine how proteins in your serum or plasma interact with it. Normally, proteins like albumin bind to the dye, which affects how it appears in the test. The result is expressed as a binding index, reflecting overall protein function and liver processing capacity.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes), or if they suspect liver disease, malnutrition, or protein disorders. It can also be part of routine monitoring for certain conditions.
How It’s Performed
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed to measure the dye-protein binding ratio. The test is typically done in a lab using a specialized method called bromocresol green assay.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if instructed by your provider. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay near the testing site for a short time.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low results may indicate liver disease, malnutrition, or protein loss (e.g., kidney disease), while high results could suggest overproduction of certain proteins. This test is less commonly used today but remains valuable in specific clinical contexts for assessing protein metabolism and liver function.
Short name
BCG Protein Binding Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a low or high result mean?
How often should I get 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