Paraprotein (Monoclonal) in Serum or Plasma
This test measures unusual protein fragments in your blood that may appear when your immune system produces an abnormal amount of a single protein type, often linked to conditions like multiple myeloma or other monoclonal gammopathies.
["Identifies potential causes of unusual protein patterns in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35268-2
- Short code
- M avium paraTB Ab Ser IA-aCnc
- Synonyms
- M avium paraTB Ab Ser IA-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- 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 Is a Monoclonal Protein?
Monoclonal proteins are identical antibodies produced in excess by a single clone of plasma cells. Normally, your blood contains many different proteins, but a monoclonal protein is a single type. These can be detected in small amounts in healthy people but may become more noticeable in diseases like multiple myeloma or Waldenström macroglobulinemia.
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, frequent infections, kidney problems, or unexplained bone pain. It’s also used as part of routine screening in people at higher risk, such as those with a family history of certain blood cancers or autoimmune disorders.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to detect unusual protein patterns using techniques like electrophoresis or immunoassay.
What Do Results Mean?
Results show the presence and concentration of monoclonal proteins. A normal result means no unusual protein fragments were found. An abnormal result may indicate a need for further testing to explore potential underlying conditions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Monoclonal proteins can signal serious conditions like multiple myeloma, where cancerous plasma cells produce large amounts of a single protein. They may also appear in less severe forms of monoclonal gammopathy or other immune-related disorders. Early detection can guide treatment decisions and improve outcomes.
Short name
Monoclonal Protein Screening
Frequently asked questions
What causes monoclonal proteins to appear?
How long does it take to get results?
Can lifestyle changes 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