Serum protein immunoelectrophoresis (immunofixation) is used to detect monoclonal immunoglobulins and to monitor the patient's response to treatment.
Upon protein electrophoresis or immunofixation, a serum or urine sample is placed on an agarose gel and an electrical current is passed through the gel, causing separation of all immunoglobulins according to their different electrical charges: IgG, IgA, IgM, IgD, and IgE. Each immunoglobulin creates a lane that has a certain curvature, position, and color intensity. An abnormality in any immunoglobulin may cause perturbation in the respective lane, such as e.g. it can displace it, curl it, give it a lighter color, make it thicker, or even completely absent. After protein electrophoresis, antisera against G, A, and M immunoglobulins and against kappa and lambda light chains are applied to the sample of urine or serum that was electrophoresed to confirm and determine a suspected monoclonal protein or the presence of Bence Jones proteins (free kappa or lambda light chains).
Protein immunoelectrophoresis or immunofixation is used in the laboratory investigation of dysproteinemias, Hodgkin's disease, humoral immune deficiency, multiple myeloma, renal failure, and Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
