Serum or Plasma Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, separated by size and charge, to help identify abnormalities such as protein patterns in conditions like multiple myeloma, infections, or liver disease.
["This test helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting protein balance in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26672-6
- Short code
- RRV Ab Ser Ql
- Synonyms
- RRV Ab Ser Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 This Test Measures
Protein electrophoresis separates blood proteins into fractions (e.g., albumin, globulins, alpha, beta, gamma) using an electric field. This helps detect unusual protein patterns that may signal underlying health issues.
Common Uses and Indications
Doctors may order this test to investigate symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swelling, or abnormal lab results. It’s also used to monitor conditions like multiple myeloma, amyloidosis, or chronic infections.
Sample Preparation and Collection
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised depending on the clinic’s protocol.
When Results Might Be Abnormal
Abnormal results may show unusual protein bands, high levels of certain proteins, or low levels of others. These findings can indicate conditions like multiple myeloma (excess monoclonal proteins), liver disease (altered albumin), or inflammatory diseases (elevated acute-phase proteins).
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Protein electrophoresis is critical for diagnosing and managing conditions affecting protein synthesis or breakdown. For example, it helps identify monoclonal gammopathies (e.g., multiple myeloma) by detecting abnormal spikes in immunoglobulin proteins. It also aids in evaluating liver function, kidney disease, or immune disorders by assessing protein composition shifts.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis (Qual)
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor request this test?
How long does it take to get results?
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