Protein Electrophoresis, Serum

Also known as SPEP

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

No special preparation required

Understanding Protein Electrophoresis, Serum

What is Protein Electrophoresis, Serum?

Protein Electrophoresis, also called Serum Protein Electrophoresis (SPEP) test, is done to identify some unique kind of protein in the body. This test is often used to find abnormal substances called M proteins. The presence of M protein can be a sign of a type of cancer called myeloma. Protein electrophoresis also tests for other proteins and antibodies.

Your doctor may recommend SPEP if you are experiencing symptoms of a condition that may be affecting the proteins in your blood serum. These symptoms include weight loss, bone pain, fractures, and excessive thirst.

The protein electrophoresis, serum test is done to diagnose and monitor a wide variety of conditions ranging from few types of cancer, liver or kidney problems, immune system problems to conditions that can lead to poor nutrition.

What is Protein Electrophoresis, Serum used for?

The protein electrophoresis, serum test is done to diagnose and monitor a wide variety of conditions. These include:

Few types of cancer
Liver or Kidney problems
Immune system problems
Conditions which can lead to poor nutrition

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Protein Electrophoresis, Serum

Frequently Asked Questions about Protein Electrophoresis, Serum

Q. When is protein electrophoresis, serum test advised?

The protein electrophoresis, serum test is advised when a patient is suspected to have a condition which is affecting the body’s plasma cells. In such case, the patient may experience symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, bone pain, fatigue, weakness, nausea, constipation, unusual thirst, frequent urination, frequent illnesses or fevers, bones that fracture easily, back pain, and high levels of calcium in the blood.

Q. What other tests can be advised along with protein electrophoresis, serum test?

Other tests which can be advised along with protein electrophoresis, serum test include protein electrophoresis, urine; immunofixation electrophoresis, serum; complete blood count, blood calcium and electrolyte test, x-rays, and kidney and liver blood tests.

Q. Is there any risk associated with the withdrawal of blood sample procedure?

As such there is no risk but in few cases, bruising, bleeding, and infection at the puncture site can be seen. In very few cases, there can be swelling of the vein after the blood is withdrawn.

Q. How is the blood sample taken?

The healthcare provider takes a blood sample from the arm. The site from where the blood is to be withdrawn is cleaned with a swab of rubbing alcohol. This is then followed by inserting a small needle which has a tube attached to it for collecting blood. Once the sufficient blood for analysis is withdrawn, the needle is removed. The site is then covered with a gauze pad.

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