Serum Electrophoresis

Also known as: Immunoglobulins; ELES

Capillary zone electrophoresis is essential in the investigation of paraprotinaemia and immune deficiency. Characteristic patterns are also seen in the presence of an acute phase response, nephritic syndrome and alpha--antitrypsin deficiency. A polyclonal increase in the gamma region is seen in inflammatory and infective disorders, some autoimmune and lymphoproliferative diseases, often with a concomitant acute phase response. A decrease in the gamma region indicates hypogammaglobulinaemia, either primary or secondary. This test is routinely performed in conjunction with immunoglobulin measurement.

Specimen requirements

Serum only
Please note: plasma samples will be rejected due to sample interference

Cost

Price on application

Laboratory turnaround time

3 days

Laboratory method

Capillary zone electrophoresis

Assay interferences

Microbially contaminated, heat-treated samples should not be used.

Grossly haemolysed, icteric or lipaemic specimens should be avoided. Plasma is contraindicated as it contains a large fibrinogen band between the beta and gamma fractions which may potentially obscure a monoclonal band.

Reference range/units

Not applicable

Associated tests

• Immunoglobulins
• Urine Electrophoresis
• Serum immunofix and Urine immunofix - see Immunofixation
• FreeLite
• HevyLite (this test is only available to OUH members on a research basis)

Sample stability

1 week at 2-8ºC

Shipping and storage

UK and Ireland

Ambient temperature and first class post. Hays DX users please enquire via email below.

International

Ambient temperature if courier will deliver within 72 hours otherwise consider refrigerated transport. Freezing is not a requirement.

Ensure delivery Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:30.

Further information and contact details

For further information, email immunology.office@nhs.net