Protein electrophoresis

Protein electrophoresis is a test that measures specific proteins in the blood. The test separates proteins in the blood based on their electrical charge. The protein electrophoresis test is often used to find abnormal substances called M proteins. The presence of M proteins can be a sign of a type of cancer called myeloma, or multiple myeloma. Myeloma affects white blood cells called plasma cells in the bone marrow. Protein electrophoresis also tests for other proteins and antibodies (immunoglobulins). 

The protein electrophoresis test is also used to diagnose other conditions affecting the plasma cells. These include Waldenström macroglobulinemia, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), and primary amyloidosis.

Protein electrophoresis can also be used to help diagnose:

Thyroid problems

Diabetes

Anemia

Liver diseases

Poor nutrition or inability to absorb nutrients

Certain autoimmune diseases

Why do I need this test ❓ 

You may need this test if your healthcare provider believes that you have a condition affecting your plasma cells. These conditions may cause the following symptoms:

Unexplained weight loss

Bone pain

Severe tiredness (fatigue)

Weakness

Nausea

Constipation

Abnormal thirst

Frequent urination

Frequent illness or fevers

Bones that fracture easily

Back pain

High levels of calcium in the blood

What other tests might I have along with this test ❓ 

You may also need:

Urine protein electrophoresis

Serum immunofixation

Bone marrow biopsy

Immunotyping, to find what type of M proteins are present

Complete blood count

Blood calcium and electrolyte test

Kidney and liver blood tests

X-rays

What do my test results mean ❓ 

Test results may vary depending on your age, gender, health history, and other things. Your test results may be different depending on the lab used. They may not mean you have a problem. Ask your healthcare provider what your test results mean for you.

Serum proteins can be albumin or globulins. Globulins are divided into alpha-1, alpha-2, beta, and gamma globulins

Albumin ➡️3.8 to 5 grams per deciliter (g/dL)

Alpha-1 (α-1) ➡️ 0.1 to 0.3 g/dL

Alpha-2 (α-2)➡️ 0.6 to 1 g/dL

Beta (β)➡️ 0.7 to 1.4 g/dL

Gamma (γ)➡️ 0.7 to 1.6 g/dL