Plasma or Serum Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the different types of proteins in your blood, separated by size and charge, to help identify abnormalities in protein distribution.
["Helps diagnose conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or kidney problems by checking protein patterns in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 54424-7
- Short code
- 1/2 Platpheresis Gvn BPU
- Synonyms
- 1/2 Platpheresis Gvn BPU
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Proteins Are Measured?
Electrophoresis separates proteins into fractions based on their electrical charge and size. Key bands include albumin (fast-moving), alpha-globulins, beta-globulins, and gamma-globulins (antibodies). Abnormal bands may indicate conditions like monoclonal gammopathy or chronic inflammation.
Why This Test Matters in Diagnosis
Abnormal protein patterns can signal diseases like multiple myeloma (excess monoclonal proteins), liver disease (altered albumin/globulin ratios), or immune disorders (e.g., Waldenström macroglobulinemia).
Sample Preparation and Testing Process
A blood sample is drawn, and plasma/serum is separated. Proteins are applied to a gel and subjected to an electric current, causing them to migrate. Staining reveals bands corresponding to protein types.
When You Might Need This Test
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, unexplained weight loss, bone pain, or if tests for kidney/liver function show irregularities.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Protein electrophoresis is critical for diagnosing monoclonal gammopathies (e.g., multiple myeloma), identifying liver/kidney dysfunction (e.g., cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome), or evaluating immune system disorders. Abnormal bands can also reflect chronic inflammation or infections.
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal protein electrophoresis results?
How long does it take to get results?
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