What is this test?
Serum protein electrophoresis separates blood proteins into fractions. It can show inflammatory patterns or an abnormal monoclonal protein that may require further investigation.
Why might it be ordered?
- To investigate unexplained high protein, anaemia, kidney problems, bone pain or neuropathy.
- To monitor a known monoclonal protein or plasma-cell condition.
What sample is needed?
A blood sample is required. The laboratory chooses the correct tube and handles the sample for this test.
How should you prepare?
Ask the laboratory whether you need to fast or attend at a particular time. Do not stop or change medicines or supplements unless your clinician tells you to.
How should you understand the result?
An abnormal band is not a diagnosis by itself and may need immunofixation, immunoglobulins, free light chains and clinical assessment. A normal SPEP does not exclude every plasma-cell disorder.
Sources and editorial status
This patient-facing text is an editorial draft. It should be approved by a laboratory physician before official publication.