Paraproteins (serum protein electrophoresis)
Immunology and Allergy Overview / Directory
Purpose of the test
The early identification of plasma cell dyscrasias is key to their treatment and management. “Intact” myeloma is readily detected in capillary serum protein electrophoresis. However, as always there are caveats to such a statement.
Capillary Serum electrophoresis (SEP) is used to identify the presence of monoclonal immunoglobulin. The trace produced and the total protein allows the quantitation of the monoclonal immunoglobulin. SEP does not however, give information as to the isotype of the monoclonal immunoglobulin. This is achieved by immunotyping and is performed on new or changed paraproteins (see Serum Paraprotein Immunotyping page).
Sample Requirements
2 ml freshly separated serum
Storage and Transport
Serum stored at 4°C should be sent by first class post
Turnaround Time
6 working days
Time Limit for Extra Tests
Five days
Factors affecting results or interpretation
All tests are compromised by prolonged transit times. For this reason, date of bleed and date of postage must be provided with each request.
Price
Price available on application - please contact adrianturner1@nhs.net. Discounts could be available for significant workloads.
Contacts
Dr Ted Davies, Consultant Clinical Scientist
T 020 3299 9000 Ex 8752
John Cazabon or Rosemary Ebling, Lead Biomedical Scientists
T 020 3299 1559
