Serum or Plasma Protein Electrophoresis by Bromocresol Green (BCG) Method

What This Test Measures

Protein electrophoresis separates blood proteins into bands based on size and electrical charge. The BCG method uses bromocresol green dye to detect and quantify specific protein groups, including albumin, alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins. This helps identify shifts in protein levels that might indicate conditions like infections, cancers, or metabolic disorders.

Why It’s Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swollen glands, or signs of organ dysfunction. It’s also used as part of routine monitoring for certain diseases, such as multiple myeloma or chronic liver disease.

Sample Collection and Preparation

Blood is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is then processed to separate serum or plasma, which is sent to a lab for testing. The BCG method involves mixing the sample with bromocresol green dye and measuring how the dye binds to different protein fractions.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test can help detect abnormalities in protein patterns that may signal conditions like multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells), certain liver diseases, infections, or autoimmune disorders. It’s also used to monitor treatment progress in some cases.