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Serum or Plasma Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative) with Bromocresol Green Staining

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the distribution of different protein types in your blood, often used to check for conditions affecting protein balance, such as multiple myeloma or liver disease.

Quick summary

["Helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may signal underlying health issues."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110130-2
Short code
S pneum Da 23F IgG Msmt Ser
Synonyms
S pneum Da 23F IgG Msmt Ser
Category
coagulation
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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) based on size and charge. Bromocresol green is a dye used to visualize these fractions, revealing any shifts that may indicate conditions like protein disorders or chronic inflammation.

Why It’s Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swelling, or signs of organ dysfunction. It’s also used as a screening tool for conditions like multiple myeloma, amyloidosis, or certain autoimmune diseases.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps diagnose or monitor conditions where protein patterns in blood differ from normal, such as multiple myeloma (cancer of plasma cells), chronic liver disease, or certain inflammatory disorders.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The serum or plasma is then processed and stained with bromocresol green before being analyzed under a microscope to observe protein bands.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Protein Electrophoresis (Bromocresol Green)

Frequently asked questions

What does a ‘spike’ in the electrophoresis result mean?
A spike typically refers to an unusually high concentration of a specific protein fraction, often seen in conditions like multiple myeloma or Waldenström macroglobulinemia. This spike may appear as an extra band or a prominent peak in the electrophoresis result.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on lab processing times. Follow-up with your healthcare provider is needed to interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Can diet affect this test?
Dietary changes alone typically do not significantly alter protein electrophoresis results. However, certain medical conditions (e.g., kidney disease, liver disease) or medications may indirectly influence protein levels, so it’s important to discuss your health status with your provider.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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