135:1048-51. Alexandria (VA): American Society of Clinical Oncology; 20052019. 1998-2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). We use cookies to enhance your experience. In contrast, polyclonal gammopathies may be caused by any reactive or inflammatory process. [Internet]. The released hemoglobin can also bind to haptoglobin, a protein in the 2 fraction, forming a hemoglobin-haptoglobin complex that blurs the 2 and separation and may resemble a malignant peak. In addition, a beta2 microglobulin test, a CRP test, and a 24-hour urine collection for electrophoresis and immunofixation should be performed. If the repeat examination is abnormal or future patterns are abnormal, the next step is to refer the patient to a hematologist-oncologist. No monoclonal band is identified. 2016 Jan 27 [cited 2019 Dec 18]; 2016 (1):37-51. Immunofixation tests can also be done in urine. Affected patients have only one tumor, with no other bone lesions and no urine or serum abnormalities. Immunofixation (IFE) Blood Test: MedlinePlus Medical Test High blood protein When to see a doctor - Mayo Clinic https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell (WBC) in the bone marrow that is responsible for making immunoglobulins. Cancer.Net [Internet]. Malignant plasma cells in the bone marrow 10% or presence of bony or extramedullary plasmacytoma, confirmed by biopsy. Mass spectrometry for the evaluation of monoclonal proteins in multiple myeloma and related disorders: an International Myeloma Working Group Mass Spectrometry Committee Report. Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia always shows a serum IgM-type monoclonal band. Making sense of serum protein bands. Protein Electrophoresis, Immunofixation Electrophoresis; [updated 2019 Oct 25; cited 2019 Dec 10]; [about 2 screens]. MGUS usually causes no problems. In myeloma, large amounts of a single antibody are noted as a monoclonal immunoglobulin spike or monoclonal spike (M spike), indicating that the protein came from cells that originally started as single, malignant cell. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2016. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Evidence of monoclonal protein is not apparent." Accessed April 18, 2019. Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) (adult). These include an elevated protein level, anemia and abnormalities in kidney function or calcium levels. It should be noted that immunoglobulins often can be found throughout the electrophoretic spectrum. Clinical course and management of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance. Often, there are associated decreases in the albumin and transferrin levels.6 Table 26 lists characteristic patterns of acute-reaction proteins found on serum protein electrophoresis, along with associated conditions or disorders. Definitive diagnosis of multiple myeloma requires 10 to 15 percent plasma cell involvement as determined by bone marrow biopsy. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. Once the serum samples are run on the analyzer, a technologist compares the curves with patients previous results and ensures the fractions are appropriately delineated. The procedure was nearly identical to one of our labs at BCIT, so Im glad to have had a bit of experience in preparing the gel and dispensing the antisera. Immunofixation "fixes" certain proteins into place with antibodies and then washes away the others before staining them. Available from: National Cancer Institute [Internet]. The identification of a monoclonal immunoglobulin is helpful in the diagnosis of the following conditions The protein electrophoresis test is often used to find abnormal substances called M proteins. Peaks and valleys in the bands may mean that you may be making too many or too few of certain proteins. The serum immunofixation test is most often done with a blood sample. A colonoscopy is specifically used to look at the colon. Continuing Medical Education (CME/CE) Courses. Retrieved from, Understanding serum protein electrophoresis, What abnormal results for SPEP test may mean, How test results may be used to decide future care, urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentid=protein_electrophoresis_serum, labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/electrophoresis, Serum Thyroxine-Binding Globulin (TBG) Level Test, Everything You Should Know About a Hair Strand Drug Test, Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI. In addition, doctors stagemyeloma to help them decide on the best treatmentplan. This pattern represents the presence of polyclonal immunoglobulin. One pathologic reason which we covered at BCIT is a monoclonal gammopathy. Monoclonal gammopathies are associated with a clonal process that is malignant or potentially malignant. Proteins play many important roles, including providing energy for the body, rebuilding muscles, and supporting the immune system. Home Decision Support in Medicine LabMed, Monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance (MGUS), Low concentration of monoclonal immunoglobulins (LCMI). Follow our channels and share your own adventure. [QxMD MEDLINE Link]. The test may also be performed again in the future. M-Protein Antibodies and Significance in Blood - Verywell Health [9], In addition, immunofixation can be used to monitor therapy in plasma cell dyscrasias (ie, multiple myeloma and Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia). 24:1121-7. M protein is an abnormal protein caused by plasma cells. MGUS is usually detected by chance when you have a blood test for another condition. When excreted in large amounts, Bence Jones proteins (free light chains) can sometimes make the urine appear foamy and they can cause injury to the kidneys. [Full Text]. Further investigation will usually be needed to make a definitive diagnosis. Urine Immunofixation: Symptoms, Treatment, and More - WebMD In addition to SPEP followed by immunofixation, quantitative serum immunoglobulin should be performed, because the M component must be greater than3 g/dL in the serum. Therefore, the International Myeloma Working Group Mass Spectrometry Committee created a set of recommendations for the evaluation of monoclonal proteins in multiple myeloma and related disorders, using mass spectrometry. The names of these subsets are based on the method that is used to separate and differentiate the various serum components. An M-protein spike of greater than 2.5 g per dL should be assessed with a metastatic bone survey that includes a single view of the humeri and femurs. CancerTherapyAdvisor.com is a free online resource that offers oncology healthcare professionals a comprehensive knowledge base of practical oncology information and clinical tools to assist in making the right decisions for their patients. laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results, https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/multiple-myeloma/diagnosis, https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/multiple-myeloma/symptoms-and-signs, https://labtestsonline.org/tests/alpha-1-antitrypsin, https://labtestsonline.org/conditions/malabsorption, https://labtestsonline.org/conditions/malnutrition, https://labtestsonline.org/tests/protein-electrophoresis-immunofixation-electrophoresis, https://mainehealth.org/services/autoimmune-diseases-rheumatology/inflammatory-diseases, https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/leukemia, https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/lymphoma, https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/multiple-myeloma, https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/blood-tests, https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Symptoms-Diagnosis/MS-Symptoms, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4753361, http://saidsupport.org/autoinflammatory-vs-autoimmune-what-is-the-difference, https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentid=immunofixation_blood, https://patient.uwhealth.org/healthwise/article/hw43650, What You Need to Know About Blood Testing, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Numbness or tingling in the face, arms and/or legs, Inflammatory diseases, a condition when the body's immune system attacks healthy tissues by mistake. Albumin, the major protein component of serum, is produced by the liver under normal physiologic conditions. Monoclonal proteins can be either intact monoclonal immunoglobulins or immunoglobulin light chains (Bence Jones proteins) found in the blood and/or urine. Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results. It can also can vary in how that amount relates to the behavior of the myeloma. Further separation of protein subtypes is achieved by staining with an immunologically active agent, which results in immunofluorescence and immunofixation. Medscape Drugs & Diseases. 9 (5):1895-1900. Polyclonal gammopathy, also known as hypergammaglobulinemia, is a condition in which white blood cells make too many proteins (antibodies). However, the presence of oligoclonal bands does not necessarily confirm the diagnosis, as other conditions can present with oligoclonal bands in the CSF. [10], Primary screening for plasma cell dyscrasias, No studies have addressed the role of serum or urine immunofixation in screening of the general population for multiple myeloma and related disorders. A serum free light chain ratio is indicated in the case of a negative immunofixation result when the suspicion for multiple myeloma is still high. It can also detect changes in the ratio of kappa and lambda light chain production, which indicates an excess of abnormal plasma cells. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2019. Blood appears to be a single substance to the naked eye. You are being redirected to We look forward to connecting with you. Accessed April 18, 2019. Electrophoresis is a method of separating proteins based on their physical properties. Immunoglobulins, known as Igs, are a group of proteins that help protect your body from illness. (2015, August 12), Serum protein electrophoresis. Morris C, Drake M, Apperley J, et al. Factors that increase your risk of developing MGUS include: Each year about 1% of people with MGUS go on to develop certain types of blood cancers or other serious diseases such as: Other complications associated with MGUS include bone fractures, blood clots and kidney problems. No monoclonal protein detected M-PROTEIN ISOTYPE MALDI-TOF MS FLAG Negative Interpretation Monoclonal Gammopathies: -A characteristic monoclonal band (M-spike) is often found on serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) in the gamma globulin region and, more rarely, in the beta or alpha-2 regions. Available from: Systemic Autoinflammatory Disease (SAID) Support [Internet]. When there is damage to the kidneys, other proteins, such as albumin, may also be present in the urine. This material may not otherwise be downloaded, copied, printed, stored, transmitted or reproduced in any medium, whether now known or later invented, except as authorized in writing by the AAFP. 2015 Oct. 47 (6):564-9. Interpreting serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) patterns National Multiple Sclerosis Society; MS Symptoms; [cited 2019 Dec 18]; [about 3 screens]. [Full Text]. Healthcare providers treat the underlying cause of the immune response to help treat polyclonal gammopathy. Gainesville (FL): University of Florida Health; c2021. If all tests are normal, the pattern of follow-up in Figure 36 can be undertaken. Electrophoresis describes the migration of charged particles in an electric field, and their subsequent separation based on size and charge. Since the expression levels of these genes and how mutations in them, if present, influence the behavior of the myeloma cells, these techniques may be helpful in better predicting treatment outcomes and developing new and improved targeted therapies. Typically present in low amounts, conditions such as multiple myeloma and Waldenstrms macroglobulinemia show proliferation of abnormal or cancerous plasma cells. Morrow ES Jr. Allscripts EPSi. [QxMD MEDLINE Link]. Any one or more of the following myeloma-defining events: Evidence of end-organ damage that can be attributed to the disease: (CRAB criteria), Clonal plasma cells in the bone marrow 60% with or without CRAB, Ratio of involved/uninvolved serum free light chain ratio 100 (involved free light chain levels must be 100mg/L), One or more focal lesions found on MRI studies (at least 5 mm in size), Bone/skeletal survey (x-rays of all the bones in the body), Whole body low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan, Positron emission tomography and computed tomography (PET-CT) scan, Download or order The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's free booklets. These so-called monoclonal gammopathies constitute a group of disorders that are characterized by proliferation of a single clone of plasma cells that produce a homogeneous M protein.6, It is extremely important to differentiate monoclonal from polyclonal gammopathies. How is a urine sample collected for an immunofixation test? Among 161 patients in whom both serum and urine demonstrated positive results for monoclonal protein and who were, posttreatment, negative for serum immunofixation, just 3 (1.9%) displayed positive urine immunofixation. Available from: Lab Tests Online [Internet]. Serum protein electrophoresis is a laboratory examination that commonly is used to identify patients with multiple myeloma and other disorders of serum protein. Serum protein electrophoresis is an inexpensive, easy-to-perform screening procedure for initial identification of monoclonal bands. Immunofixation in CSF for the detection of oligoclonal bands is indicated every time there is suspicion for multiple sclerosis. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. What does no monoclonal protein detected mean - DQKD [20]. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier; 2019. https://www.clinicalkey.com. So when the Serum Protein Electrophoresis (SPEP) test shows a spike in M protein, this is a sign of MM. ; 2014 Mar 14 [cited 2020 Jan 22]; [about 3 screens]. Collection in a container: A plastic collection container is used. what does no apparent monoclonal protein on serum electrophoresis mean Some people may experience a rash or nerve problems, such as numbness or tingling. Myeloma Protein (M Protein): What Is It? | MyMyelomaTeam Cytogenetic Analysis. IgA or some other type). In a normal result, the lanes are broad and there is a gradual and smooth reduction in the color density toward the edges of the lane with no narrow dense band with sharp borders identified within the lane. In addition, when protein electrophoresis assays are positive for a monoclonal protein, serum and urine immunofixation are indicated for the appropriate identification of the immunoglobulin and the corresponding light chain. Monoclonal bands are usually seen in the zone but may be seen in proximity of the band or, rarely, in the 2 region. All material on this website is protected by copyright, Copyright 1994-2023 by WebMD LLC. Medscape Drugs & Diseases. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. MGUS is characterized by a serum IgG monoclonal protein less than 3.5 g/dL or IgA paraprotein less than 2 g/dL, with no or only a small amount of protein in urine (Bence Jones protein < 1 g/24 hr). Symptoms of malnutrition or malabsorption include: A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. Bone marrow testing involves two steps usually done at the same time in a doctor's office or a hospital: The diagnosis of myeloma depends on three main findings: Revised International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) Criteria for the Diagnosis of Multiple Myeloma. Serum Protein Electrophoresis - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics [1] In the former, the serum is applied to an agarose gel, and the negatively charged serum proteins move toward the cathode under the influence of an electric current. 2011. In many myeloma patients, the coordinated process of making and attaching light chains and heavy chains fails in the malignant plasma cells. No sponsor or advertiser has participated in, approved or paid for the content provided by Decision Support in Medicine LLC. Evidence of end-organ damage as defined by the CRAB criteria. Join the BCIT conversation on social media. Immunofixation detects monoclonal proteins in serum and urine Urbancek S, Gascon P, Schwartz RA, Jacobson DR, Buxbaum JN, Bogdan CA. Monoclonal antibodies could be used as myeloma treatments and can be identified by serum protein electrophoresis and immunofixation electrophoresis. There are five types of heavy chains, and each type is represented by a specific letter: IgG, IgA, IgD, IgE and IgM. Making sense of serum protein bands - Best Tests July 2011 - bpac Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press. However, blood has several components. Blood Chemistry Tests. Tax Identification Number: 13-5644916, Myeloma Guide: Information for Patients and Caregivers, A bone marrow aspirationto remove a liquid marrow sample, A bone marrow biopsyto remove a small amount of bone filled with marrow, Malignant plasma cells: Plasma cell level of >10% in a bone marrow biopsy sample, Unusually large amounts of monoclonal protein (called an M spike).