Serum Protein Electrophoresis (SPE)

Description: 
Serum electrophoresis is critical for the diagnosis, staging and serial follow-up of patients with plasma cell dyscrasia. It should be done when multiple myeloma, Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinaemia, primary amyloidosis, or a related disorder is suspected.
Clinical details: 
Disease states in which abnormal patterns are observed include liver disease, protein losing states, poor nutrition, acute phase reactions accompanied with haemolysis, vasculitis (e.g. Rheumatoid arthritis) or immune complex diseases and genetic deficiencies. Changes in protein concentrations are also seen in oestrogen therapy or pregnancy. Assessing changes and proportions of various proteins, particularly monoclonal paraprotein, helps with tracking the disease progression in myeloma and assess response to treatment.
Reference range: 

Interpretative comments used. No numerical value reported.

Sample type and Volume required: 
Clotted (yellow SST tube) Serum.
0.5 mL serum required (minimum 250 uL).
Turnaround time: 
2 - 3 days
Special sample instructions: 

Haemolysed samples and plasma samples should be avoided.

Storage and transport: 
Fresh serum samples are recommended, however serum samples stored at 15-30ºC for up to 4 days, 2-8ºC for 2 weeks or -20ºC for 6 months can be used. Samples can be sent by first class post.
Contacts:
Reference Chemistry Laboratory at St Thomas'
020 7188 1264
4th floor, North Wing
St Thomas' Hospital
Westminster Bridge Road
London SE1 7EH
For clinical advice or interpretation of results, please contact the laboratory in the first instance.

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Last updated: 13/08/2015