Skip to content

Protein Electrophoresis, Serum

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

This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, including albumin and globulins, which help identify conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, or multiple myeloma.

Quick summary

["This test helps doctors check for 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
60489-2
Short code
S pyo DNA Throat Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
S pyo DNA Throat Ql NAA+probe
Category
coagulation
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
probe-amp-tar
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 This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting protein levels in the blood, such as kidney disease, liver disorders, or certain cancers. It can also help assess conditions like multiple myeloma, amyloidosis, or chronic inflammatory diseases.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves drawing blood. Wear a loose shirt for easy access to your arm.

During the Test

A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into your arm to draw blood. You may feel a brief pinch, but it’s usually over quickly. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results show the distribution of proteins in your serum, including bands representing albumin, alpha, beta, and gamma globulins. Abnormal patterns may indicate conditions like protein loss (e.g., nephrotic syndrome), immune disorders, or metabolic diseases.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Abnormal protein electrophoresis can reveal conditions like multiple myeloma (excess monoclonal proteins), chronic liver disease (altered albumin/globulin ratios), or kidney disease (proteinuria). It’s also used to monitor treatment responses in certain cancers or autoimmune disorders.

Short name

Serum Protein Electrophoresis

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal protein patterns?
Abnormal results may be due to conditions like multiple myeloma (spikes in monoclonal proteins), liver disease (reduced albumin), kidney disease (protein loss), or chronic inflammation. Lifestyle factors (e.g., diet, medications) can also influence protein levels.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Follow up with your provider to discuss findings.
Can diet affect this test?
Yes, certain foods (e.g., high-protein diets) or medications (e.g., steroids) may influence protein levels. Avoid extreme dietary changes before testing unless directed by 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