Serum Transferrin Electrophoresis
This test measures the distribution of transferrin protein variants in your blood serum using electrophoresis, a technique that separates proteins based on size and charge.
["Understanding your transferrin protein pattern may help identify potential genetic or metabolic conditions affecting protein structure."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 98995-4
- Short code
- Transferrin MFr SerPl Elph
- Synonyms
- Transferrin MFr SerPl Elph
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 7.35
- Ref high
- 7.45
- Critical range
- 7.2 N/A – 7.6 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- electrophoresis
- CPT
- 84466
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained fatigue, anemia, or if genetic testing suggests hereditary conditions affecting protein synthesis or transport (e.g., certain types of hemochromatosis or hereditary transferrin variants). It may also be used in research or specialized diagnostic settings.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed. You may have a blood draw from a vein in your arm. If you’re on blood thinners or have a history of clotting issues, let your provider know. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before testing if instructed.
What the Results Mean
Electrophoresis separates transferrin into bands based on its electrical charge. Abnormal patterns may indicate inherited disorders (e.g., transferrin variants) or conditions affecting protein metabolism. Results are interpreted by a trained lab specialist or genetic counselor.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is less commonly used in routine care but may help diagnose rare genetic disorders linked to abnormal transferrin, such as certain forms of iron metabolism disorders or hereditary protein abnormalities.
Reference range
NCBI: pH 7.35-7.45N/A
Fasting for 12 hours preferred. Iron supplements should be stopped 24 hours before if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Transferrin Protein Profile
Frequently asked questions
How long will I need to wait for my results?
Your provider may have suspected a hereditary condition affecting transferrin (e.g., transferrin variants, iron overload syndromes) based on your symptoms, family history, or other test results. This test helps confirm or rule out specific genetic patterns.
What if my results are abnormal?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy