Protein Electrophoresis, Serum
Understanding Protein Electrophoresis, Serum
What is Protein Electrophoresis, Serum?
Protein Electrophoresis, also called Serum Protein Electrophoresis (SPEP) test, is done to identify some unique kind of protein in the body. This test is often used to find abnormal substances called M proteins. The presence of M protein can be a sign of a type of cancer called myeloma. Protein electrophoresis also tests for other proteins and antibodies.
Your doctor may recommend SPEP if you are experiencing symptoms of a condition that may be affecting the proteins in your blood serum. These symptoms include weight loss, bone pain, fractures, and excessive thirst.
The protein electrophoresis, serum test is done to diagnose and monitor a wide variety of conditions ranging from few types of cancer, liver or kidney problems, immune system problems to conditions that can lead to poor nutrition.
What is Protein Electrophoresis, Serum used for?
The protein electrophoresis, serum test is done to diagnose and monitor a wide variety of conditions. These include:
Few types of cancer
Liver or Kidney problems
Immune system problems
Conditions which can lead to poor nutrition