Protein electrophoresis of urine, CSF or body fluid
Quick answer: This test separates the proteins in urine, the fluid around the brain and spine (CSF), or other body fluid into groups to look for abnormal patterns. Urine tests help look for myeloma and kidney protein loss; CSF tests help look for conditions such as multiple sclerosis.
- SampleUrine, CSF or fluid
- Takes24 hours for urine; 20–40 minutes for a CSF or fluid procedure
- Before the testFor a 24-hour urine test, collect all your urine as instructed; CSF and other fluids are collected by your doctor.
How the test is done
- 1For urine, you collect all urine for 24 hours, or give a single sample if asked
- 2CSF is collected by a doctor through a lumbar puncture in the lower back
- 3Other fluids are drawn with a needle during a procedure
- 4The lab separates the proteins into groups and looks for abnormal bands
What your results can mean
Reading your report
The report describes the protein pattern, so discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
In urine, an abnormal band can point to myeloma or kidney protein loss. In CSF, special bands can be seen with multiple sclerosis or other nervous system inflammation.
Who usually has this test
People with suspected myeloma or kidney protein loss, and people with possible multiple sclerosis or other nerve inflammation.
Risks and aftercare
After a lumbar puncture you may be asked to rest and drink fluids, as a headache can occur; urine collection has no risk.
Names and options
Also called: urine protein electrophoresis, UPEP, CSF electrophoresis, oligoclonal bands
Options
- Body fluid
- 24-hour urine
- CSF
Listed by the hospital as
- FLUID PROTEIN ELECTROPHORESIS
- ELECTROPHORESIS 24 HRS URINE
- CSF ELECTROPHORESIS
Questions about this test
What are oligoclonal bands in CSF?
They are groups of antibodies made inside the brain and spinal cord. Finding them in CSF but not in blood supports a diagnosis such as multiple sclerosis.
Why is a blood sample sometimes taken with CSF?
Comparing blood and CSF helps show whether antibodies are made inside the nervous system or have come from the blood.
What does Bence Jones protein in urine mean?
These are free light chains that can be seen with myeloma and related conditions. Your doctor will order more tests if they are found.
Related tests
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.