Serum or Plasma Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative) with Bromocresol Green Probe
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood using electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins based on size and charge. A bromocresol green dye is used to detect specific protein fractions.
["This test helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may suggest conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or other disorders affecting protein production."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 94584-0
- Short code
- VZV DNA Spec Ql NAA+n-prb
- Synonyms
- VZV DNA Spec Ql NAA+n-prb
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- non-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
What This Test Measures
Electrophoresis separates blood proteins into distinct bands based on their electrical charge and molecular weight. The bromocresol green probe helps visualize certain protein fractions, such as albumin, alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins. Abnormal patterns may indicate conditions like monoclonal gammopathy or protein disorders.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting protein levels, such as chronic liver disease, kidney disease, or certain cancers. It can also help assess protein synthesis or degradation in systemic diseases.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The serum or plasma is then processed and analyzed using electrophoresis to separate proteins. The bromocresol green probe is applied to detect specific protein fractions visually.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is particularly useful for identifying abnormal protein bands that may signal conditions like multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells), Waldenström macroglobulinemia, or other paraneoplastic syndromes. It can also help evaluate liver function or detect protein-losing syndromes.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein electrophoresis patterns can reveal underlying issues such as increased or decreased levels of specific proteins. For example, a prominent band in the gamma region may suggest monoclonal gammopathy, while altered alpha or beta bands could indicate liver or kidney disease. Early detection can guide treatment decisions.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
What does a normal result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or medications affect 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