Skip to content

Serum or Plasma Slope of Electrophoretic Mobility (for Protein Electrophoresis)

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

This test measures how proteins move through an electric field during electrophoresis, helping assess protein distribution in your blood.

Quick summary

["Evaluates protein separation patterns in serum or plasma for potential abnormalities."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
10096-6
Short code
ST Slope L-AVR
Synonyms
ST Slope L-AVR
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ekg
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 Is This Test Measuring?

Electrophoresis separates proteins based on their size, charge, and shape. The slope reflects how quickly and consistently proteins migrate through the gel. This can help identify conditions affecting protein distribution, such as inflammation, infections, or certain genetic disorders.

Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?

Your doctor may request this test if they suspect conditions like multiple myeloma, chronic inflammation, or other disorders that alter protein patterns in the blood. It’s sometimes used alongside other tests to refine diagnosis or monitor treatment progress.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn and placed in a gel medium. An electric current is applied, causing proteins to move toward opposite charges. The slope of their movement is measured to create a profile of protein distribution.

What Does a Result Mean?

Results aren’t typically reported as a single number but as a graphical profile. Abnormal slopes may indicate shifts in protein bands, suggesting conditions like protein abnormalities or immune system changes.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Electrophoretic Mobility Slope

Frequently asked questions

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
Abnormal slopes may be linked to conditions such as multiple myeloma (excess monoclonal proteins), chronic infections, or autoimmune diseases. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized interpretation.
How Often Should This Test Be Done?
Frequency depends on your medical condition. If ordered for monitoring, your doctor will specify timing. Routine blood tests usually don’t include this test unless indicated.
What Should I Do Before the Test?
No special preparation is needed, but avoid heavy meals or alcohol 24 hours before. Follow your doctor’s instructions for fasting if applicable to other tests on the same day.
  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