Protein Electrophoresis with Reflex to Immunofixation, Serum
Also known as: SPEP REFLEX
Use
This test aids in the diagnosis and management of monoclonal gammopathies, such as multiple myeloma, by detecting and quantifying serum monoclonal proteins. When an abnormal or suspicious pattern is detected during serum protein electrophoresis, immunofixation is performed for more sensitive detection of small monoclonal proteins, aiding in diagnosis of conditions like amyloidosis, treated myeloma, and macroglobulinemia.
Special Instructions
Immunofixation Electrophoresis will be automatically reflexed if patterns from serum protein electrophoresis are monoclonal or suspicious. Additional charges apply for reflexed immunofixation. Ensure specimen is handled properly to maintain stability: separate serum from cells as soon as possible or within 2 hours of collection and store refrigerated.
Limitations
Serum protein electrophoresis is a general screening tool that may not distinguish between different types of dysproteinemias or detect small monoclonal proteins effectively. Immunofixation electrophoresis is utilized to provide greater sensitivity for identifying small M proteins but is only conducted if serum protein electrophoresis results indicate possible monoclonal gammopathy.
New York Approved
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2862-1
- 2865-4
- 2868-8
- 2871-2
- 2874-6
- 13348-8
- 2885-2
- 49275-1
- 33358-3
- 11526-1
Result Turnaround Time
1-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1.5 mL
Minimum Volume
1.5 mL
Container
ARUP standard transport tube
Collection Instructions
Collect in a serum separator tube (SST). Separate from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated
Causes for Rejection
Plasma
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Unacceptable |
| Refrigerated | 1 week |
| Frozen | 1 month |