Serum or Plasma Total Protein with Albumin and Globulin Separation (Bromocresol Green Electrophoresis)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, including albumin and globulin, to help diagnose conditions affecting protein levels or protein balance in your body.
["Understanding your protein breakdown helps identify potential health issues like liver disease, kidney problems, or infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26140-4
- Short code
- XR Mastoid-L Views
- Synonyms
- XR Mastoid-L Views
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- xr
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- 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 check for conditions that affect how proteins are made, broken down, or used in your body. It can help diagnose or monitor diseases like multiple myeloma, liver disease, kidney disease, or certain types of infections.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a blood draw, where a small amount of blood is taken from a vein in your arm. If a urine sample is involved, you might be asked to collect a sample at home or in a lab setting.
What the Results Mean
The test separates proteins into different fractions (albumin, alpha, beta, and gamma globulins) using electrophoresis. Abnormal patterns may indicate conditions like protein loss, overproduction of certain proteins, or immune system disorders.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test helps track conditions such as chronic kidney disease, liver disease, inflammatory diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), or cancers like multiple myeloma, where protein levels can change.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein electrophoresis can signal underlying health issues by revealing imbalances in protein types. For example, high gamma globulins may suggest an immune disorder, while low albumin could indicate liver or kidney problems. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis (BCG Electrophoresis)
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low protein level mean in this test?
Can diet affect this test?
How often should I get 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy