Synonyms: Protein Electrophoresis, serum; SPE

CPT 4 Code: 84165

Test Order Mnemonic: SPE

Test Includes: Total Protein, Albumin, Alpha-1 Globulin, Alpha-2 Globulin, Beta Globulin, Gamma Globulin, and Interpretation

Lab: Clinical Chemistry

Request Form: Special Chemistry Form 2

Collection: Routine venipuncture

Storage Instructions: Centrifuge the specimen to separate serum from red cells and refrigerate.

Causes for Rejection: Gross hemolysis, improper collection. See special instructions.

Availability: Samples are received 24 hours per day at Sample Management, Room 5.136 McCullough.

Turnaround Time: Routine: 24 hours; test is performed Monday-Friday

Special Instructions: The test can be ordered only once per inpatient admission and once per month for outpatients. Additional requests require the approval of the laboratory director.

Specimen: Blood

Volume: 7 mL blood

Minimum Volume: 3 mL blood

Container: Preferred: SST (gel barrier) tube; Acceptable: Red-topped tube

Reference Ranges: Total Protein: 6.3-8.2 g/dL; Albumin: 3.5-5.0 g/dL; Alpha-1: 0.2-0.4 g/dL; Alpha-2: 0.6-1.2 g/dL; Beta: 0.7-1.4 g/dL; Gamma: 1.0-1.8 g/dL

Test Method: Electrophoresis

Reviewed/revised April 2007 by P. Harris