What does the SPEP test consist of, and why has your healthcare provider recommended it, especially for you? Read further along this situation to educate yourself about the serum electrophoresis test.
Why Do I Need Immunofixation Electrophoresis?
Is the serum electrophoresis test meant for you? Most medical experts recommend undertaking the test to diagnose the following conditions:
- Diagnosing specific medical conditions: The SPEP test can diagnose conditions such as multiple myeloma (a type of cancer affecting the bone marrow) and monoclonal gammopathy (an abnormal buildup of a protein called immunoglobulin in the blood).
- Monitoring the course of treatment: Serum electrophoresis can monitor the effectiveness of treatment for conditions such as multiple myeloma or monoclonal gammopathy. It can also help monitor the side effects of certain medications, such as chemotherapy.
- Assessing liver function: Protein electrophoresis can be used to evaluate the function of the liver, as certain proteins, such as albumin and globulin, are produced by the liver.
- Finding if you have malnutrition: SPEP tests can help diagnose malnutrition by measuring the levels of proteins such as albumin, which can be low in malnourished people.
- Evaluating your immune system function: Serum Protein Electrophoresis can be used to assess the function of the immune system by measuring the levels of immunoglobulins, proteins produced by the immune system to help fight infections.
How To Prepare For SPEP Blood Test?
There is no special preparation required for the SPEP test. It is a simple Blood Test that requires drawing a blood sample from the vein in your arm. Before the test, be wary of the following factors:
- Do not fast unless prescribed by your healthcare professional.
- Drink adequate water before arriving at the diagnostic center
- Avoid consuming alcohol or smoking.
- If you have medications, consult your healthcare provider to determine if you can take those before checking your protein electrophoresis levels.
What Happens During Immunofixation Electrophoresis Testing?
Are you visiting your nearest diagnostic center to get a SPEP test? If yes, your healthcare professional will take the following steps to draw the blood sample:
- Your healthcare provider will wrap a thin pipe around your arm and cleanse the target area with rubbing alcohol.
- The expert will check for the vein in your arm and ask you to clench your fists tightly.
- Your healthcare provider will draw a blood sample from your vein using a syringe and collect it in a vial/test tube, removing the injection from your skin.
- They will seal the target area with a bandage to avoid bleeding and send your blood sample to the laboratory for testing.