Serum protein electrophoresis

Serum Protein Electrophoresis (SPE) is a laboratory technique used to separate proteins found in blood serum. This method is based on the principle that proteins will migrate in an electric field due to their charge. Serum protein electrophoresis is commonly used in clinical laboratories for the diagnosis and monitoring of various diseases and conditions, including multiple myeloma, chronic inflammation, and liver diseases.

Overview

Serum protein electrophoresis separates proteins into five main fractions based on their size, charge, and shape. These fractions are: albumin, alpha-1 globulins, alpha-2 globulins, beta globulins, and gamma globulins. Each fraction can provide valuable diagnostic information. For example, an increase in gamma globulins may indicate a chronic inflammatory condition or a monoclonal gammopathy such as multiple myeloma.

Procedure

The procedure for serum protein electrophoresis involves applying a small volume of serum to a support medium, such as agarose gel, and then applying an electric current. The proteins in the serum migrate at different rates depending on their charge and size, resulting in distinct bands that can be visualized and quantified. The pattern and intensity of these bands are analyzed to assess the protein composition of the serum.

Clinical Significance

Serum protein electrophoresis is a valuable tool in the diagnosis and monitoring of various diseases. Abnormalities in the protein fractions can indicate specific disorders:

• Increased albumin levels may be seen in dehydration.
• Decreased albumin levels can indicate liver disease, malnutrition, or chronic inflammation.
• Alpha-1 globulin increases can be associated with inflammatory diseases.
• Alpha-2 globulin increases are often seen in conditions causing acute inflammation or tissue damage.
• Beta globulin abnormalities may indicate iron deficiency anemia or hyperlipidemia.
• Gamma globulin elevation is significant in diagnosing diseases such as multiple myeloma or chronic inflammatory conditions.

Limitations

While serum protein electrophoresis is a useful diagnostic tool, it has limitations. It can indicate the presence of abnormal protein levels but cannot identify the specific cause of the abnormality. Further testing, such as immunofixation electrophoresis, may be necessary to determine the exact nature of the protein abnormality.

Conclusion

Serum protein electrophoresis is a critical diagnostic tool in the clinical laboratory, providing essential information for the diagnosis and monitoring of various diseases. Its ability to separate and quantify serum proteins makes it invaluable in the medical field, despite its limitations.