Serum or Plasma Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, separated by size and charge, to help identify abnormalities such as infections, diseases like multiple myeloma, or other conditions affecting protein levels.
["This test helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting blood proteins."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2894-4
- Short code
- ZPP RBC Ql
- Synonyms
- ZPP RBC Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
Protein electrophoresis separates blood proteins into distinct bands based on their electrical charge and molecular weight. This helps identify patterns that may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, infections, liver disease, or other protein-related disorders.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test to investigate symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, or abnormal lab results. It can also be used to monitor known conditions like chronic kidney disease or autoimmune disorders.
Common Conditions Monitored
Conditions like multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells), Waldenström macroglobulinemia (a rare blood cancer), infections (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), or liver/kidney disorders may show up as abnormal protein patterns on this test.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma, which is analyzed using electrophoresis to create a protein profile.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/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 health issues, including cancers (such as multiple myeloma), immune system disorders, or metabolic diseases. For example, a spike in a particular protein band may indicate a condition like monoclonal gammopathy, while low protein levels may suggest malnutrition or liver/kidney problems. Early detection can guide treatment decisions.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a protein electrophoresis test show?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before 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