Electrophoresis by Immunofixation (IF) - Serum
The purpose of the test is to:
- Detect and identify abnormal (monoclonal) proteins in blood
- Help diagnose conditions like multiple myeloma
- Evaluate immune system disorders
- Monitor disease progression and treatment response
ELECTROPHORESIS BY IMMUNOFIXATION (IF) - SERUM Test
Serum Immunofixation Electrophoresis (IFE) is a blood test used to detect and identify abnormal proteins, particularly monoclonal immunoglobulins (M-proteins) in the blood. It combines electrophoresis with specific antibodies to determine the type of abnormal immunoglobulin present.
The test is commonly used when there is suspicion of multiple myeloma, monoclonal gammopathy, or other plasma cell disorders. It can also help characterize an abnormal protein pattern found on serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP).
Depending on the clinical situation, serum immunofixation may be performed along with serum protein electrophoresis, serum free light chain testing, urine studies, and other investigations to provide a more complete assessment.
This Test is Recommended for Individuals:
- Individuals with an abnormal serum protein electrophoresis result
- Patients being evaluated for multiple myeloma or related plasma cell disorders
- People with suspected monoclonal gammopathy
- Individuals with unexplained anemia, bone pain, or recurrent infections when a plasma cell disorder is suspected
- Patients with unexplained changes in total protein or immunoglobulin levels
- Individuals with certain unexplained kidney abnormalities associated with abnormal proteins
- Patients undergoing monitoring of a previously identified monoclonal protein
FAQs
1. What does serum immunofixation electrophoresis detect?
Serum IFE detects and identifies monoclonal immunoglobulins in the blood. It can help determine the specific type of abnormal protein, such as an immunoglobulin heavy chain and/or light chain.
2. Is immunofixation the same as serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP)?
No. SPEP separates blood proteins and can identify an abnormal protein pattern, while immunofixation is more sensitive for detecting and characterizing specific monoclonal proteins. The two tests are often used together.
3. Does a positive immunofixation result mean that a person has multiple myeloma?
Not necessarily. A monoclonal protein can occur in several conditions, including MGUS and other plasma cell disorders, and sometimes requires further evaluation. The result should be interpreted along with symptoms, medical history, blood counts, kidney function, calcium levels, and other investigations.