Bromocresol Purple Protein Electrophoresis (Serum)
This test measures protein distribution in your blood serum using a dye called bromocresol purple to separate and analyze different protein fractions, often used to evaluate conditions affecting protein balance.
["This test helps diagnose and monitor protein disorders, including those linked to kidney disease or liver conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 57846-8
- Short code
- WBC # Pcar Auto
- Synonyms
- WBC # Pcar Auto
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.5
- Ref high
- 11
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 30 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- automated-count
- CPT
- 85004
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003002
- 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
The bromocresol purple dye binds to proteins in your blood serum, allowing for separation into distinct bands. Each band corresponds to a specific protein group, including albumin and globulins, which can shift with certain medical conditions.
Why It’s Ordered
Healthcare providers may order this test if you have symptoms of protein-related disorders, such as swelling, unexplained weight loss, or signs of organ dysfunction (e.g., kidneys or liver). It’s also used to screen for conditions like multiple myeloma or nephrotic syndrome.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test helps track changes in protein levels that may indicate progression or response to treatment in conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver disease, or certain cancers.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The serum portion is separated and prepared for analysis using the bromocresol purple dye method.
Reference range
Adult: 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein patterns can signal underlying issues such as protein loss (e.g., in kidney disease), increased protein production (e.g., in myeloma), or metabolic imbalances. Changes in albumin or globulin levels may also reflect inflammation, infection, or nutritional deficiencies.
Short name
BCP Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low protein band mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet affect this test 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