Serum Protein Electrophoresis (SPEP)
5,175 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
SPEP
Purpose
The Serum Protein Electrophoresis (SPEP) Test is a laboratory procedure that separates specific proteins in the blood based on their electric charge and size. It provides a visual representation of the major protein fractions in the blood: albumin, alpha-1, alpha-2, beta, and gamma globulins.
Healthcare providers use this test primarily to detect and monitor abnormal protein patterns that may indicate serious health conditions, especially monoclonal gammopathy disorders in which the body produces an abnormal amount of a single type of immunoglobulin (monoclonal protein or “M protein”).
The SPEP test plays a crucial role in:
- Diagnosing plasma cell disorders such as multiple myeloma, Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia, and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS)
- Detecting immune system disorders, including immune deficiencies, autoimmune diseases, and chronic infections
- Evaluating unexplained weight loss, fatigue, bone pain, anemia, or high total protein levels
- Monitoring treatment effectiveness or disease progression in patients with known monoclonal or immune disorders
- By identifying the presence and type of abnormal proteins in the blood, the test helps guide diagnosis and further medical investigation.
To confirm diagnosis and provide a complete clinical picture, the test can be done alongside Urine Protein Electrophoresis (UPEP), Complete Blood Count (CBC), Total Serum Protein, and Albumin Tests.
Patient Preparation
No special preparation needed.
Samples
2ml with a minimum volume of 1ml of serum collected in a red top tube or gel barrier tube. Serum should be separated within 45 minutes of sample collection. The sample should be refrigerated at 2-8 c.
Reference Range
0-6months:4.6-7.2g/dl,7m to 1year:5.7-8.2g/dl,.1 year:6.0-8.5g/dl.
Results Turnaround
3-4 days after receipt of samples.
Diseases / Diagnostic indicators
Some possible outcomes of the test include:
Normal Protein Pattern:
A normal SPEP result shows balanced levels of albumin and the major globulin fractions (alpha-1, alpha-2, beta, and gamma). This indicates normal liver function, immune system activity, and protein distribution.
Monoclonal Spike (M-spike):
A sharp, narrow spike usually in the gamma region indicates the presence of a monoclonal protein (M-protein). This finding is common in conditions such as:
- Multiple myeloma
Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS)
- Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia
Further testing (e.g., immunofixation, bone marrow biopsy) is needed to determine the exact cause.
- Polyclonal Gammopathy:
A broad-based elevation in the gamma region suggests increased production of multiple immunoglobulins, often due to:
- Chronic infections
- Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
- Chronic liver disease
Low Albumin Levels:
A reduced albumin band may indicate liver disease, kidney disease, malnutrition, or inflammation.
- Decreased or Flattened Gamma Region:
This may suggest immunodeficiency, where the body is not producing enough antibodies, such as in agammaglobulinemia or advanced HIV/AIDS.
This test provides important diagnostic clues by analyzing protein distribution and helps detect a wide range of disorders involving the immune system, liver, kidneys, or blood.