Assay

Protein Electrophoresis

Key Words

Protien Electrophoresis, PE

Specimen Collection

Serum (Brown)

Turnaround time

72 Hours

Test indications

Serum electrophoresis is used as a test for the detection of monoclonal gammopathies, i.e. immunoglobulins produced by a single clone of B cells, as seen in myeloma, MGUS, Waldenstroms, etc.

The testing process involves the electrophoresis of clotted serum, followed by the detection of the component serum protein bands by staining. Samples with atypical electrophoretic patterns (particularly those with discrete bands in the gamma region where most immunoglobulins are found) are then referred for Immunofixation.

Immunofixation is used to confirm or rule out the presence of a monoclonal gammaglobulin, also allowing typing of any bands (i.e. the heavy chain: G, A, M, D or E and a light chain: Kappa or Lambda).

When a monoclonal band is present, a more detailed report follows (a paraprotein report) with information on the clonality and concentration of the monoclonal gammopathy, as well as quantification of the other immunoglobulins.

For further information on the significance of a paraprotein result and clinical management please refer to the following webpage: http://pch-pathlab.com/cms/?q=paraprotein

Due to the nature of electrophoresis investigations, final reports may take up to two weeks. If you have any concerns about a particular request, please feel free to contact the laboratory.

Methodology

Capillary electrophoresis

Interferences

Plasma samples (e.g EDTA or Lithium Heparin) cannot be used as fibrinogen is clearly visible on the electrophoresis trace and may obscure a monoclone in the β₂ region.

Reference Range

N/A

Analytical error

N/A

Reference change value

N/A

Minimum retesting interval

Requests made within 14 days of a previous result on a patient are intervened.