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Protein electrophoresis test for detecting hidden immune disorders and unexplained symptoms

Blood Test for Unexplained Fatigue and Immune Problems

Protein, Total and Protein Electrophoresis

Google
3,138 reviews
  • Reveal hidden protein imbalances effortlessly
  • Diagnose immune system issues with precision
  • Clarify the cause of unexplained symptoms
First results as soon as overnight*

90 day happiness guarantee

We stand behind our service

Prescription & fees included

Go directly to the lab, no extra fees

Easy to understand results

With friendly doctor's notes & guidance

Fast & convenient

Lab visit as quick as 10 mins in & out

90 day happiness guarantee

We stand behind our service

Prescription & fees included

Go directly to the lab, no extra fees

Easy to understand results

With friendly doctor's notes & guidance

Fast & convenient

Lab visit as quick as 10 mins in & out

What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained symptoms like persistent fatigue, bone pain, frequent infections, or unexplained weight loss that your doctor wants to investigate further. It helps identify protein imbalances, immune system disorders, and abnormal proteins that could signal conditions like multiple myeloma or other gammopathies. Many people get this test when routine bloodwork shows unusual protein levels or when symptoms suggest an underlying immune or blood disorder.

How should I prepare for this test?

Overnight fasting is preferred before this test. This means avoiding food for 8-12 hours before your blood draw, though you can drink water. Fasting helps ensure the most accurate protein measurements by reducing interference from recently consumed food. Check with your healthcare provider about whether you should continue taking any medications.

What's included in this test?

Protein, Total and Protein Electrophoresis

This test measures Total Protein and performs Serum Protein Electrophoresis (SPE), which separates proteins into six fractions: Albumin, Alpha-1, Alpha-2, Beta-1, Beta-2, and Gamma. This comprehensive analysis reveals protein imbalances that can indicate immune system problems, liver or kidney disease, inflammation, nutritional deficiencies, or abnormal protein production like monoclonal gammopathies. Together, these measurements provide crucial insights into your immune function, nutritional status, and help detect conditions that might not show up on standard blood tests.

What happens after I get my results?
You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining what your protein levels and fractions mean for your immune health and overall well-being. These notes include personalized recommendations like dietary changes, which specialists to consult if abnormalities are detected, or whether follow-up testing is needed. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your protein levels over time using our trends feature to monitor any changes or improvements.
Who should consider getting this test?
This test is important for people with unexplained symptoms like persistent fatigue, bone pain, recurrent infections, or unusual bruising. It's also recommended if routine bloodwork shows abnormal protein levels, if you have a family history of blood disorders or immune conditions, or if your doctor suspects multiple myeloma or other protein disorders. Anyone experiencing unexplained weight loss or kidney problems may also benefit from this screening.
What symptoms indicate I may need this test?
Symptoms that may warrant this test include persistent bone pain or fractures, unexplained fatigue that doesn't improve with rest, frequent infections indicating immune problems, or unexplained weight loss. You might also need this test if you experience numbness or tingling in your extremities, excessive thirst, confusion, or if you have swelling that suggests kidney issues. These symptoms could indicate protein abnormalities affecting your immune system or organ function.
What is protein electrophoresis and why does it matter?
Protein electrophoresis is a specialized lab technique that separates the different types of proteins in your blood to reveal patterns that indicate health problems. Your blood contains various protein groups that each serve important functions like fighting infections, transporting nutrients, and maintaining fluid balance. When these protein fractions are out of balance, it can signal immune disorders, liver or kidney disease, inflammation, or abnormal protein production that requires medical attention.
What does an abnormal protein pattern mean?
An abnormal protein pattern can indicate several conditions depending on which fractions are affected. Elevated gamma proteins might suggest chronic infection, autoimmune disease, or conditions like multiple myeloma. Low albumin can indicate malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems. Elevated alpha proteins often reflect inflammation or acute illness. Your doctor will interpret the specific pattern along with your symptoms and other test results to determine the underlying cause.
What is a monoclonal gammopathy?
A monoclonal gammopathy is a condition where your body produces an abnormal amount of a single type of protein called an M-protein or paraprotein. This shows up as a distinct spike on the electrophoresis pattern. While some monoclonal gammopathies are benign and require only monitoring, others can indicate serious conditions like multiple myeloma or related blood disorders. This test is one of the primary ways to detect these abnormal protein patterns early.
How often should I retest my protein levels?
Retesting frequency depends on your initial results and underlying condition. If abnormalities are detected, your doctor may recommend retesting every 3-6 months to monitor progression or response to treatment. For benign monoclonal gammopathies, annual testing is often sufficient. If your results are normal but you have ongoing symptoms, your doctor might suggest retesting in 6-12 months or when symptoms change.
How’s this work?
Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:
  1. In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
  2. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
  3. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
  4. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
  5. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
  6. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
  7. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
  8. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email [email protected] and we'll gladly help you.
How do I know which test to get?
In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.

Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at [email protected], and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.
Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?
Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.

Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at [email protected]. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.

There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.

Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.
Do you accept health insurance?
Only HSA & FSA is accepted.

Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.

This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.

If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email [email protected].
Can I cancel my order?
Yes.

We get it – sometimes your needs change.

As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.

If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email [email protected].

You can read more about our cancellation policy here.
How can I find a lab location near me?
During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).

Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.

If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email [email protected] and we'll gladly help you.

Here’s why 1,000,000+ customers chose us for affordable hassle-free private blood testing.

You get clinical lab reports & simplified health insights.
Save time & gas, go straight to the lab. Our doctors cover the rest.
Results start landing the next day after your lab visit.*
We don’t sell or share your data. Your time & privacy matter.
US-licensed doctors have your back if things get unclear.
No hidden fees, nice discounts for regular checkups.
Save a trip to the doctor, go directly to the lab
Instant orders, results often overnight*
Results explained in simple language
Reviewed by US licensed doctors
Fast & confidential, we never sell or share your data
No insurance needed, transparent pricing
Demo results
Total Protein 6.2 g/dL
Demo results
Low Optimal 6.5 - 8.3 High
6.2 g/dL

What this means

Your total protein level is slightly below the optimal range, which may indicate inadequate protein intake, absorption issues, or increased protein loss. Low protein levels can contribute to fatigue, weakness, and reduced immune function over time.

* Regular blood test results (e.g., CBC) typically start arriving the next business day after sample collection. More complex tests, such as hormone panels, may take up to 10–15 business days due to their complexity.
Here’s how easy it is to get blood work done on your terms
Choose a checkup
Order your test Save a trip to the doctor. Your results will come with clear, friendly explanations. Takes 2 minutes
Book a lab
Book an appointment Visit any of our 4,000 nearby lab locations to have your samples collected. Book or walk-in
Choose a checkup
Get results Receive a clear, easy-to-digest health report by email & SMS within a few business days. Get answers, fast

Blood Test for Unexplained Fatigue and Immune Problems

Google
3,138 reviews
  • Reveal hidden protein imbalances effortlessly
  • Diagnose immune system issues with precision
  • Clarify the cause of unexplained symptoms

1,000,000+ blood tests later, here's what our customers say

Google reviews 3138 reviews Next
Still got questions? Text our super-cool support team at 754-799-7833 to get help finding your ideal checkup.