Protein Electrophoresis, Serum (Qualitative or Semi-Quantitative)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, helping identify abnormalities in protein distribution that may signal conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or kidney problems.
["Protein electrophoresis helps doctors spot unusual protein patterns that could indicate hidden health issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5990-7
- Short code
- tPA 20M PPP Chro-aCnc
- Synonyms
- tPA 20M PPP Chro-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- chromo
- 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 Proteins Are Measured?
Electrophoresis separates blood proteins into fractions based on size and charge. Key bands include albumin (fast-moving), globulins (intermediate), and abnormal spikes (slow-moving). Some labs may also report total protein levels indirectly.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Doctors order this test to check for conditions like multiple myeloma (bone marrow cancer), chronic liver disease, or kidney disease. It may also help monitor treatment responses or diagnose rare protein disorders.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn, and proteins are separated using an electric field. Results are often qualitative (yes/no) or semi-quantitative (relative amounts), with visual bands or a report of abnormal patterns.
What Does the Test Tell You?
Abnormal bands (e.g., M-spikes for myeloma) or shifts in protein ratios may indicate disease. Some labs may provide a visual chart or description of protein distribution rather than exact numbers.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Protein electrophoresis is critical for diagnosing hematologic malignancies (e.g., multiple myeloma), identifying liver or kidney dysfunction, and detecting hereditary protein disorders. Abnormal results prompt further testing, such as bone marrow biopsy or imaging.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal protein electrophoresis result mean?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I eat or drink anything before 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