Serum or Plasma Protein Electrophoresis with Bromocresol Green (BCG) Dye Binding Assay
This test measures the distribution of different protein types in your blood, often used to check for conditions affecting protein balance, such as kidney disease or certain cancers.
["Helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may signal underlying health issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 96611-9
- Short code
- T pall+H ducr+HSV DNA Pnl Spec NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- T pall+H ducr+HSV DNA Pnl Spec NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 1.5
- Ref high
- 9
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 83002
- 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 like multiple myeloma, amyloidosis, or kidney disease. It can also help assess protein abnormalities in conditions like liver disease or certain autoimmune disorders.
How the Test Works
Blood is drawn and separated into components. The BCG dye binds to proteins differently based on their size and charge, creating a visual pattern when separated by electrophoresis. This pattern helps identify abnormal protein levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider about any medications or supplements you take, as they may affect results. Avoid alcohol before testing if instructed.
During the Test
A small needle is inserted into your arm to draw blood. You may feel a brief pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The process takes about 5 minutes.
Reference range
Follicular: 1.5-9.0 mIU/mLN/A
For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein patterns detected in this test can indicate conditions such as multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells), kidney disease (e.g., nephrotic syndrome), or other protein-related disorders. It may also help monitor treatment progress or detect early signs of disease.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis (BCG)
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal result mean?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
How long will it take to get my results?
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