Monoclonal Protein Study, Quantitative, Serum
Use
The Monoclonal Protein Study, Quantitative, Serum is useful for aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of monoclonal gammopathies. It is most effective when used in conjunction with free light chain studies. This test is valuable for identifying conditions like multiple myeloma, Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, and other disorders characterized by the production of monoclonal proteins. Although it provides critical insights, it is not considered adequate as a stand-alone screening test for monoclonal gammopathies, and should be used in combination with other diagnostic approaches for comprehensive patient assessment.
Special Instructions
Quantitation of monoclonal protein alone is not considered an adequate screen for monoclonal gammopathies. When screening a patient or establishing a first-time diagnosis for a monoclonal gammopathy, order FLCS / Immunoglobulin Free Light Chains, Serum in addition to this test.
Limitations
The test is limited as a standalone screening tool for monoclonal gammopathies. Additional diagnostic tests such as serum protein electrophoresis, serum free light chain analysis, and urine monoclonal protein study may be required for comprehensive evaluation. It cannot quantitate IgD, IgE, free kappa, and free lambda monoclonal proteins; these should be analyzed with specific assays. Patients on therapeutic monoclonal antibodies may present with pseudo M-protein results, requiring careful interpretation.
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 104266-2
- 2458-8
- 2465-3
- 2472-9
- 74862-4
- 74863-2
- 74864-0
- 74865-7
- 74866-5
- 74867-3
- 104267-0
- 94400-9
- 69048-7
- 98855-0
Result Turnaround Time
2-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
2 mL total in 2 separate plastic vials, each containing 1 mL
Minimum Volume
1.5 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into 2 plastic vials, each containing 1 mL
Causes for Rejection
Gross lipemia
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 28 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |
