Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Monoclonal Protein Screening (Serum)
This test checks for unusual amounts of a single type of antibody (IgG) in your blood that may suggest a condition called monoclonal gammopathy, which can sometimes lead to diseases like multiple myeloma.
["A screening test for abnormal antibody proteins that may indicate a serious blood disorder."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 104672-1
- Short code
- IgD&IgE.Monoclon Band Obs Ser IFE
- Synonyms
- IgD&IgE.Monoclon Band Obs Ser IFE
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- immunofixation
- 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
What Does This Test Measure?
This test measures the concentration of IgG antibodies in your serum. IgG is the most common type of antibody in your blood, but the test specifically looks for any unusual spikes in a single IgG clone (monoclonal protein). These spikes can occur in conditions like multiple myeloma, lymphoma, or other monoclonal gammopathies.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained fatigue, frequent infections, bone pain, or if they suspect a blood disorder. It’s also sometimes used as part of a broader evaluation for conditions like multiple myeloma or other monoclonal gammopathies of undetermined significance (MGUS).
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw blood. The process takes about 5 minutes, and you may feel a slight pinch. If you’re nervous, let your doctor or nurse know.
What to Expect After the Test
After the test, you may experience mild bruising, soreness, or swelling at the injection site. Apply gentle pressure to the area to help reduce any discomfort. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a few hours. You can resume normal activities right after.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal levels of monoclonal IgG proteins can indicate serious conditions, such as multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells), Waldenström macroglobulinemia (a type of lymphoma), or other monoclonal gammopathies. While many people with elevated monoclonal proteins don’t have a serious condition, further testing may be needed to determine the cause and next steps.
Short name
IgG Monoclonal Protein Screen
Frequently asked questions
What Does an Abnormal Result Mean?
Will I Need More Tests If My Result Is Abnormal?
Can Diet or Supplements Affect 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy