Protein Electrophoresis (Serum) with Immunofixation (IF) for Monoclonal Gammopathy Screening
This test measures the proteins in your blood to help identify unusual protein patterns, including potential monoclonal gammopathy (a condition where abnormal proteins, called monoclonal proteins, build up in the blood).
["Helps detect and monitor conditions like multiple myeloma or other monoclonal gammopathies."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 106585-3
- Short code
- C krusei DNA Fld Ql NAA+n-prb
- Synonyms
- C krusei DNA Fld Ql NAA+n-prb
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 22
- Ref high
- 198
- Critical range
- — – 10000 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- non-probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 82553
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained fatigue, frequent infections, kidney problems, or if they suspect a condition affecting your blood proteins. It’s also used as part of routine screening for certain blood disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll typically have a small needle inserted to draw blood from a vein in your arm. The process takes about 5 minutes, and you can resume normal activities afterward.
What the Test Results Mean
The test separates blood proteins into bands (fractions) based on size and charge. Immunofixation adds a step to detect specific monoclonal proteins. Abnormal bands or spikes may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma or benign monoclonal gammopathy.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test helps diagnose or monitor conditions such as multiple myeloma, Waldenström macroglobulinemia, or other monoclonal gammopathies. It may also be used to check for protein abnormalities in chronic kidney disease or other systemic diseases.
Reference range
Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test is critical for identifying monoclonal proteins in the blood, which can signal serious conditions like multiple myeloma. Early detection improves treatment options and outcomes. Results may guide decisions about further testing, such as bone marrow biopsy or follow-up protein electrophoresis.
Short name
Serum Protein Electrophoresis (IF)
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy