Protein Electrophoresis Reflexive Panel

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General Information

Lab Name
Protein Electrophoresis Panel
Lab Code
ELPP
Epic Ordering
Protein Electrophoresis Reflexive Panel
Description

Purpose: This test can be used to screen for and identify a monoclonal protein (M-spike).

The initial test performed is serum protein electrophoresis. Samples with a monoclonal band present on protein electrophoresis that has previously been identified in this laboratory will be resulted with the concentration of the known M-spike. Samples demonstrating previously unidentified protein bands of concern will be reflexively tested by immunofixation, which generates an additional result and charge. If a monoclonal band is identified by immunofixation, its concentration will be reported.

Serum free light chain testing (FLC) testing is available as a separate order, and is not included in this panel.

Synonyms
Gammopathy, Immunofixation, M-Protein, MGUS, Monoclonal, Monoclonal antibody, Multiple myeloma, Myeloma, Serum electrophoresis, Serum protein electrophoresis, SPEP, Waldenstrom
Components

Interpretation

Method

Agarose Electrophoresis (AEP)

Reference Range
See individual components
Interferences and Limitations

Hemolysis may falsely elevate alpha-2 and beta components.
Stability: 1 week refrigerated; stable long-term if frozen.

Guidelines

Ordering & Collection

Specimen Type
Blood
Collection

3 mL blood in RED TOP or GOLD SST tube.
Pediatric: 2 full GOLD or RED TOP MICROTAINERS.

Handling Instructions
Quantity
requested: 0.5 mL serum ELP; 0.5 mL for TP

Processing

Processing

Refrigerate serum.
Make two aliquots: 0.5 mL to IMM for ELP and 0.5 mL to CHEM for ETP.

OK to share ELP and IFIX on one tube if short sample. Forward shared pink slip to Immunology.

Outside Laboratory: If Total Protein is provided please free text "TP provided" after test ordered, and provide a copy of the slip to Panel Bench and Immunology.

Performance

LIS Dept Code
Immunology (IMM)
Performing Location(s)
UW-MT Immunology
206-520-4600

Clinical Lab, Room NW220,
University of Washington Medical Center,
1959 NE Pacific street, Seattle, WA 98195

Frequency
Monday-Friday
Available STAT?
No

Billing & Coding

CPT codes
84165x2
LOINC
24351-9
Interfaced Order Code
UOW2008