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Serum or Plasma Substance Concentration (Bromocresol Green Dye Binding)

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

This test measures how bromocresol green dye binds to proteins in your blood, which can help assess protein levels or liver function.

Quick summary

["This test may support evaluation of protein abnormalities or liver health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
101204-6
Short code
VZV IgA SerPl IA-aCnc
Synonyms
VZV IgA SerPl IA-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
CPT
82784
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

Bromocresol green (BCG) is a dye that binds to proteins in your blood, including albumin. The amount of dye bound reflects protein concentration, often indirectly assessing liver synthesis or protein status. This method is less commonly used today but may still appear in older or specialized testing.

Why It Might Be Ordered

Doctors may order this test if they suspect liver disease, protein disorders, or other conditions affecting protein synthesis. It can also be part of broader evaluations for malnutrition or certain metabolic conditions.

Sample Collection and Preparation

Blood is drawn from a vein, typically in the arm. The sample is processed to separate serum or plasma, which is then analyzed for dye binding properties.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but inform your healthcare provider about any medications or conditions that could affect results, such as liver disease or kidney problems.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

BCG Dye Binding Test

Frequently asked questions

This test may help identify liver dysfunction or protein abnormalities, though it is less specific than other tests like albumin or globulin measurements. Results are often interpreted alongside clinical findings and other lab tests.
This test may not provide direct information about specific diseases but can support broader assessments of protein or liver function. Results should be reviewed by a healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.
What does a high or low result mean?
Results may indicate altered protein binding capacity, which can be linked to liver issues or other metabolic conditions. However, interpretation depends on clinical context and other test results.
Is this test still commonly used?
This test is rare today but may appear in specialized or historical testing. Modern alternatives often include more direct protein or liver function assessments.
  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