Protein Electrophoresis
Immunofixation Electrophoresis
The Test Sample
What is being tested?
Protein electrophoresis is a method for separating the proteins found in serum or urine. Immunofixation electrophoresis is a method for detecting specific proteins, usually immunoglobulins.
Serum proteins are separated into five or six major groupings by electrophoresis. These fractions are called albumin, alpha 1, alpha 2, beta, and gamma. The beta fraction is sometimes divided into beta 1 and beta 2. Albumin, which is produced in the liver, accounts for about 60% of the protein in the blood. “Globulins” is a collective term used to refer to proteins other than albumin. With the exception of the immunoglobulins and some complement proteins, most of the globulins are also produced in the liver. The major plasma proteins and their functions are listed according to their electrophoretic group in a table titled Protein Groups.
These protein groups are separated into bands by protein electrophoresis and form characteristic patterns. Alterations to these patterns are associated with a variety of different diseases and conditions. The most important example is the appearance of a distinct, or monoclonal, band in the gamma globulins. Normally, the gamma globulins appear as a smooth pattern of protein staining with no distinct bands present. In patients with multiple myeloma, the uncontrolled growth and division of a malignant plasma cell leads to the production of large amounts of a single type of immunoglobulin. The abnormal protein can be seen as a characteristic band on the electrophoresis gel and is identified by immunofixation, which indicates which immunoglobulin is abnormal.
How is the sample collected for testing?
A blood sample is obtained by inserting a needle into a vein in the arm. Sometimes a random or 24-hour urine sample is required.
NOTE: If undergoing medical tests makes you or someone you care for anxious, embarrassed, or even difficult to manage, you might consider reading one or more of the following articles: Coping with Test Pain, Discomfort, and Anxiety, Tips on Blood Testing, Tips to Help Children through Their Medical Tests, and Tips to Help the Elderly through Their Medical Tests.
Another article, Follow That Sample, provides a glimpse at the collection and processing of a blood sample and throat culture.
Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample?
No test preparation is needed.
