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 evaluate liver health and protein balance in your bloodstream."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13167-2
- Short code
- S pneum Da 7F Ab Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- S pneum Da 7F Ab Ser-aCnc
- Category
- coagulation
- 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
The test uses bromocresol green dye, which binds to certain proteins in your blood. When the dye binds, it changes color, allowing the lab to determine how much protein is present. This method is particularly useful for detecting changes in protein levels, which can reflect liver function or other metabolic processes.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes), or if they suspect liver disease, protein deficiency, or other conditions affecting protein synthesis.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is sometimes used to monitor conditions like hypoalbuminemia (low protein levels), liver cirrhosis, or other liver-related disorders. It may also be part of routine liver function panels in certain clinical settings.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma, which is sent to the lab for testing. The lab will analyze the dye binding properties of the protein fraction.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Changes in bromocresol green binding can indicate liver dysfunction, reduced protein synthesis, or other metabolic disturbances. While less commonly used today, it remains a historical method for assessing protein-related liver function. Results may be compared to baseline or other liver tests for context.
Short name
BCG Dye Binding Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low result mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Is this test covered by insurance?
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