Plasma Immunoglobulin (Ig) Profile by Electrophoresis
This test measures the levels of three key antibodies (IgG, IgA, and IgM) in your blood using electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins based on size and charge.
["IgG, IgA, and IgM are vital for immune defense; this test helps assess immune function and identify potential deficiencies or abnormalities."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14169-7
- Short code
- PHIM Plas-mCnc
- Synonyms
- PHIM Plas-mCnc
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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
Doctors may order this test to evaluate immune system health, diagnose conditions like immunodeficiency, autoimmune diseases, or infections. It can also help monitor treatment responses in patients with chronic illnesses.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted to draw blood from a vein, usually in your arm. The process takes about 5 minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch or discomfort.
What the Results Mean
Results show the concentration of IgG, IgA, and IgM in your plasma. Abnormal levels may indicate immune system issues, such as low antibody production (hypogammaglobulinemia) or high levels due to overactive immune responses.
Common Conditions Linked to These Results
Low IgG levels might suggest immunodeficiency, while elevated IgA could be linked to autoimmune diseases or chronic inflammation. IgM levels often rise during early infections or certain immune disorders.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: This test is critical for diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the immune system, such as primary immunodeficiency diseases, autoimmune disorders, or chronic infections. It helps guide treatment plans, including antibody replacement therapy or immune-modulating medications.
Short name
IgG/IgA/IgM Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a low or high level of IgG, IgA, or IgM mean for my health?
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes or diet affect my Ig levels?
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