Abnprotmfrserplelph
A blood test that separates and measures different types of proteins in your blood to help diagnose various medical conditions.
{"SPEP separates blood proteins to detect abnormal patterns","It helps diagnose conditions like multiple myeloma and liver disease","The test requires a simple blood draw","Results show five main protein fractions: albumin, alpha-1, alpha-2, beta, and gamma","Abnormal results may indicate infection, inflammation, or cancer"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 56154-8
- Short code
- SPE
- Synonyms
- Abn Prot MFr SerPl Elph
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum Separator Tube (SST/Gold top) or plain red top tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 55
- Ref high
- 65
- Critical range
- 7.2 N/A – 7.6 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- electrophoresis
- CPT
- 86355
- SNOMED
- 26958004
- Specimen volume
- 3-5 mL of serum
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24-48 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 50
- Lipemia max
- 300
- Icterus max
- 20
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
Serum Protein Electrophoresis (SPEP) is a laboratory test that separates and measures the different types of proteins in the liquid part of your blood (serum). The test uses an electrical current to separate protein molecules based on their size and electrical charge, producing a characteristic pattern that doctors can analyze.
How is the test performed?
A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm. The blood is then sent to a laboratory where it is processed and analyzed using electrophoresis. You do not need to fast before this test, though your doctor may instruct you otherwise based on your specific situation.
What do the results show?
The test results show five main protein fractions: Albumin (the most abundant protein), Alpha-1 globulins, Alpha-2 globulins, Beta globulins, and Gamma globulins (which include antibodies). Each fraction's percentage and absolute value are measured, and abnormal patterns can indicate various health conditions.
Reference range
Protein fractions reported as percentage of total protein: Albumin 55-65%, Alpha-1 globulin 1-5%, Alpha-2 globulin 5-12%, Beta globulin 8-15%, Gamma globulin 10-20%. Total protein: 6.0-8.3 g/dL. Presence of abnormal monoclonal (M) band is considered pathologic.N/A
No fasting required. Avoid hemolysis. Inform laboratory of recent IV contrast administration or blood transfusions as these may interfere. Patient should be in stable medical condition.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is the test painful?
How long does it take to get results?
Do I need to prepare for the test?
What does an abnormal result mean?
Will I need additional tests?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 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