What is a Spep blood test for?
The serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) test measures specific proteins in the blood to help identify some diseases. Proteins are substances made up of smaller building blocks called amino acids. Proteins carry a positive or a negative electrical charge, and they move in fluid when placed in an electrical field.
What is Spep with Immunofixation?
Another test must be used to measure the amount of abnormal Ig in the blood. This test is called serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) test. Your doctor can use it to confirm certain diagnoses. The IFX test can also be used to study changes in the structure of normal proteins in the blood.
What diseases does Spep test for?
Your doctor may recommend SPEP if you are experiencing symptoms of a condition affecting the proteins in your blood serum….Some of the conditions that could be causing these symptoms are:
- cancer.
- thyroid problems.
- diabetes.
- anemia.
- liver diseases.
- malnutrition.
- certain autoimmune diseases.
- multiple sclerosis.
What is Immunofixation test?
What is an immunofixation (IFE) blood test? An immunofixation blood test, also known as protein electrophoresis, measures certain proteins in the blood. Proteins play many important roles, including providing energy for the body, rebuilding muscles, and supporting the immune system.
What is immunofixation vs electrophoresis?
Urine protein electrophoresis (UPEP) is used to identify the presence of the Bence Jones protein in urine. Immunofixation is used to identify the subtype of protein (ie, IgA lambda).
What is the purpose of immunofixation?
Immunofixation permits the detection and typing of monoclonal antibodies or immunoglobulins in serum or urine. It is of great importance for the diagnosis and monitoring of certain blood related diseases such as myeloma.