Serum or Plasma Substance Concentration (Bromocresol Green Dye Binding)
This test measures how bromocresol green dye binds to a protein in your blood, often used to assess liver function or protein synthesis.
["This test helps check how well your liver produces proteins or if there’s an issue with protein levels in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 82574-5
- Short code
- S aureus Etx E IgE Qn
- Synonyms
- S aureus Etx E IgE Qn
- 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
Bromocresol green (BCG) is a dye that binds specifically to certain proteins in the blood, such as albumin. In this test, the amount of dye that binds to these proteins is measured. This process can indirectly reflect liver function or protein production, as the liver plays a key role in synthesizing proteins like albumin.
Why It’s Done
Doctors may order this test if they suspect liver disease, malnutrition, or conditions affecting protein synthesis. It can also be part of monitoring treatments for conditions like cirrhosis or kidney disease.
How It’s Performed
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed to separate serum or plasma, where the dye-binding assay is performed. Results are compared to what’s expected for healthy individuals.
What the Results Mean
Lower than expected levels may indicate liver disease, malnutrition, or other conditions that reduce protein production. Higher levels might suggest dehydration or other factors affecting protein binding. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is less commonly used today due to the availability of more direct protein tests like albumin or globulin levels. However, it historically served as a screening tool for liver dysfunction or protein abnormalities, particularly in older diagnostic practices or specific clinical scenarios.
Short name
BCG Dye Binding Assay
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor request this test?
What are the typical reference ranges for this test?
How long does it take to get results from 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