Serum or Plasma Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, separated by size and charge. It helps identify abnormalities in protein distribution, which may signal conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or other disorders.
["This test helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting protein balance in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 110129-4
- Short code
- S pneum Da 3 IgG Msmt Ser
- Synonyms
- S pneum Da 3 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
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to investigate symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swelling, or changes in urine appearance. It’s also used to monitor conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, or certain cancers that alter protein levels. Sometimes, it’s part of a routine check for people at higher risk of blood disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Wear a loose shirt for easy access to your arm. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The blood sample is then sent to a lab, where it’s separated into different protein fractions using gel electrophoresis. The results are qualitative, meaning they describe patterns rather than specific numeric values.
What Are the Possible Results?
Results show bands or patterns representing protein types, such as albumin, globulins, and others. Abnormal patterns may indicate high or low levels of specific proteins, which could signal conditions like multiple myeloma (excess monoclonal proteins), liver disease (altered albumin), or infections.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Protein electrophoresis is critical for diagnosing and managing conditions that affect protein synthesis or breakdown. For example, it can detect monoclonal gammopathies (e.g., multiple myeloma) by identifying abnormal spikes in protein bands. It also helps monitor treatment responses or progression of diseases like cirrhosis or nephrotic syndrome, where protein levels may shift over time.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a ‘spike’ or ‘band’ in the test results mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or medications affect 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