LAB TEST
Immunoelectrophoresis – blood
Serum immunoelectrophoresis is a lab test that measures proteins called immunoglobulins in the blood. Immunoglobulins are proteins that function as antibodies , which fight infection. There are many types of immunoglobulins that fight different types of infections. Some immunoglobulins can be abnormal and may be due to some types of cancer . Immunoglobulins can also be measured in the urine .
How the Test is Performed
A blood sample is needed .
How to Prepare for the Test
There is no special preparation for this test.
How the Test will Feel
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain. Others feel only a prick or stinging. Afterward, there may be some throbbing or slight bruising. This soon goes away.
Why the Test is Performed
This test is most often used to check the types and amounts of immunoglobulins when certain cancers and other disorders are present or suspected.
Normal Results
A normal (negative) result means that the blood sample had normal types and amounts of immunoglobulins. The level of one immunoglobulin was not higher than any other.
What Abnormal Results Mean
Abnormal results may be due to: Amyloidosis (buildup of abnormal proteins in tissues and organs) Leukemia (cancer of the bone marrow) Waldenström macroglobulinemia (a type of lymphoma) Lymphoma (cancer of the lymph tissue) Monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance (MGUS, a type of blood disorder) Multiple myeloma…
Risks
There is little risk involved with having your blood taken. Veins and arteries vary in size from one person to another and from one side of the body to the other. Taking blood from some people may be more difficult than from others. Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight, but may include: Excessive…
References
Gertz MA, Dispenzieri A. Amyloidosis. In: Goldman L, Cooney KA, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine . 27th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 174. McPherson RA. Specific proteins. In: McPherson RA, Pincus MR, eds. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods . 24th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier;…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 17/06/2024).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.