Immunoelectrophoresis; serum
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Immunoelectrophoresis; Serum
Common name: Electrophoresis of Serum Proteins
Technical term: Immunofixation Electrophoresis (IFE)
Summary
Immunoelectrophoresis of serum is a lab test used to identify and classify proteins in the blood. It separates proteins based on their electrical charge and reacts them with specific antibodies to provide a profile of protein types.
Purpose
This procedure helps diagnose and monitor conditions involving abnormal immune proteins such as multiple myeloma and other gammopathies. It aims to detect abnormal proteins, determine their types, and measure their amounts.
Indications
- Unexplained anemia or fatigue
- Frequent infections
- Bone pain or fractures
- Kidney dysfunction
- High blood protein levels
Preparation
- No fasting is required.
- Patients should inform their doctor about any medications or supplements they are taking, as some may interfere with the results.
- No other pre-procedure diagnostics are typically necessary.
Procedure Description
- A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in the arm.
- The sample is sent to a lab where proteins are separated by causing them to migrate through a gel under an electric field.
- Specific antibodies are added to bind with targeted proteins.
- The results create a visual profile that shows the presence and distribution of various proteins.
Tools and Equipment:
- Gel electrophoresis apparatus
- Specific antibodies
- Microscope and imaging equipment
No anesthesia or sedation is required.
Duration
The blood draw takes about 5–10 minutes, but lab analysis may take several hours to a few days.
Setting
The blood sample is usually collected in a clinic, hospital, or laboratory.
Personnel
- Phlebotomist or a nurse to draw the blood sample
- Lab technicians or medical technologists to analyze the sample
- Pathologist to interpret the results
Risks and Complications
- Minor discomfort or bruising at the puncture site
- Rare risk of infection at the puncture site
Benefits
- Accurate diagnosis of immune-related disorders
- Helps tailor treatment plans for specific conditions
- Detection of specific protein abnormalities provides a clear picture of disease status
Recovery
- Minimal recovery required; patients can resume normal activities immediately after the blood draw.
- Follow-up appointments may be scheduled based on the results.
Alternatives
- Serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) without immunofixation: Less specific.
- Free light chain assay: Another method to measure specific proteins.
- Bone marrow biopsy: More invasive, used for direct sampling of marrow cells.
Patient Experience
Patients may experience a mild sting during the blood draw and slight soreness at the puncture site. There is typically no pain during the lab analysis phase since the remainder of the procedure occurs outside the body. Proper hydration and rest can help mitigate any minor side effects.