what does no apparent monoclonal protein on serum electrophoresis mean
Typically, the monoclonal protein is discovered, and workup then ensues. [9], Surveillance among patients with MGUS or smoldering (asymptomatic) multiple myeloma, Immunofixation of the urine and serum should be included in a battery of tests after 2-3 months following diagnosis of smoldering myeloma, then every 4-6 months for 1 year, and, finally, every 6-12 months if the results are stable. PDF Multiple Myeloma Early Detection, Diagnosis, and Staging Proteins play many important roles, including providing energy for the body, rebuilding muscles, and supporting the immune system. Protein Electrophoresis, Immunofixation Electrophoresis; [updated 2019 Oct 25; cited 2019 Dec 10]; [about 2 screens]. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. High amounts of M protein in a person's blood or urine may be a sign they have multiple myeloma but the presence of M proteins could also indicate other types of plasma cell tumors. In healthy individuals, antibodies produced by plasma cells in the bone marrow help this process. Shah D, Seiter K. Multiple myeloma. Diseases that produce an increase in the gamma-globulin level include Hodgkins disease, malignant lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, granulomatous diseases, connective tissue diseases, liver diseases, multiple myeloma, Waldenstrms macroglobulinemia, and amyloidosis.3,7, Although many conditions can cause an increase in the gamma region, several disease states cause a homogeneous spike-like peak in a focal region of the gamma-globulin zone (Figure 2). Surveillance for multiple myeloma in patients with MGUS and favorable prognostic factors (ie, low levels of monoclonal protein and IgG type) should include monitoring at 6 months and then every 2-3 years thereafter. UK Myeloma Forum (UKMF) and Nordic Myeloma Study Group (NMSG): guidelines for the investigation of newly detected M-proteins and the management of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). Bone marrow biopsy may be useful to show aggregates of plasma cells in focal or diffuse patterns. Testing a 24-hour urine sample allows for an accurate measurement of the level of kidney function and can indicate possible kidney damage from myeloma. Rochester, Minn.: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; 2019. Rajhumar SV. See additional information. In myeloma, large amounts of a single antibody are noted as a monoclonal immunoglobulin spike or monoclonal spike (M spike), indicating that the protein came from cells that originally started as single, malignant cell. Consequently, urine protein electrophoresis is recommended in all patients suspected of having a plasma cell dyscrasia.10. Some. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. Proteins play many important roles, including providing energy for the body, rebuilding muscles, and supporting the immune system. This test measures the numbers of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets in the blood. Finally, when several bands with sharp borders are seen after immunofixation in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) but not in serum, the result is reported as positive for oligoclonal bands. Much of the clinical interest is focused on the gamma region of the serum protein spectrum because immunoglobulins migrate to this region. Cavuoti D, Baskin L, Jialal I. Electrophoresis is a lab technique used to separate groups of proteins in blood serum. No monoclonal band is identified. In Kelowna I had the week of review, and go out 2-3 mornings a week while in Chem and Hematology. Endoscopy vs. Colonoscopy: How Do They Differ? There are two main types of proteins in the blood: albumin and globulin. Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). All rights reserved. [1] In the former, the serum is applied to an agarose gel, and the negatively charged serum proteins move toward the cathode under the influence of an electric current. Health Encyclopedia: Immunofixation (Blood); [cited 2019 Dec 10]; [about 2 screens]. Immunofixation "fixes" certain proteins into place with antibodies and then washes away the others before staining them. Connect with others like you for support and answers to your questions in the Blood Cancers & Disorders support group on Mayo Clinic Connect, a patient community. See permissionsforcopyrightquestions and/or permission requests. Myelomacells produce many copies of its anibody. Polyclonal Gammopathy: Definition & Causes - Cleveland Clinic We want you to take advantage of everything Cancer Therapy Advisor has to offer. Medscape Drugs & Diseases. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Often, there are associated decreases in the albumin and transferrin levels.6 Table 26 lists characteristic patterns of acute-reaction proteins found on serum protein electrophoresis, along with associated conditions or disorders. If the curve is relatively normal (e.g. Goldman L, et al., eds. The stained gel is then sent to a pathologist for diagnosis. Immunofixationconsists of an electrophoresis phase and a fixation phase. Malabsorption; [updated 2019 Nov 11; cited 2019 Dec 10]; [about 2 screens]. [Internet]. bone pain. Myeloma affects white blood cells called plasma cells in the bone marrow. So when the Serum Protein Electrophoresis (SPEP) test shows a spike in M protein, this is a sign of MM. Copyright 2005 by the American Academy of Family Physicians. All rights reserved. Make your tax-deductible gift and be a part of the cutting-edge research and care that's changing medicine. An apparent monoclonal protein on serum protein electrophoresis may or may not be a true monoclonal protein. The presence of a suspected monoclonal can lead to further testing by immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE). The five groups of proteins usually considered during an SPEP test are: Electrophoresis is a lab technique used to separate groups of proteins in blood serum. All of these measurements provide information about the extent of the disease and are useful for monitoring response to treatment. Diagnostic Approach to Patients with an IgM Monoclonal Protein [7], The identification of oligoclonal bands in CSF is helpful in the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. Abnormalities in any of these tests should result in a referral to a hematologist-oncologist. The Licensed Content is the property of and copyrighted by DSM. However, the presence of oligoclonal bands does not necessarily confirm the diagnosis, as other conditions can present with oligoclonal bands in the CSF. Cawley LP, Minard BJ, Tourtellotte WW, et al. Protein Electrophoresis Serum Test - Healthline Heavy/light chain specific immunoglobulin ratios provides no additional information than serum proteins electrophoresis and immunofixation for the diagnosis and the follow-up of intact immunoglobulin multiple myeloma patients. Medscape Drugs & Diseases. If all tests are normal, the pattern of follow-up in Figure 36 can be undertaken. Follow-up of multiple myeloma, Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, and AL amyloidosis, Immunofixation of urine and serum samples should be performed in all patients with multiple myeloma, Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, and AL amyloidosis every 3 months after the completion of treatment in order to evaluate for response or to document a relapse. To confirm the former and because of the latter, if there is a high index of clinical suspicion, immunofixation studies are required. Continuing Medical Education (CME/CE) Courses. Please confirm that you would like to log out of Medscape. Protein Electrophoresis questions - NeuroTalk Support Groups Plasma cell disorders. PDF Understanding Your Lab Results - Myeloma Central Peripheral blood smear often shows RBCs in a stacked or rouleaux formation. Many subspecialists. The examination also should be considered in other red flag situations (Table 1).24, If the examination is normal but multiple myeloma, Waldenstrms macroglobulinemia, primary amyloidosis, or a related disorder still is suspected, immunofixation also should be performed because this technique may be more sensitive in identifying a small monoclonal (M) protein.5. Alexandria (VA): American Society of Clinical Oncology; 20052019. The disorder occurs most commonly in older men. Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education, Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development, for Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), Mayo Clinic on Incontinence - Mayo Clinic Press, NEW Mayo Clinic on High Blood Pressure - Mayo Clinic Press, Mayo Clinic on Hearing and Balance - Mayo Clinic Press, FREE Mayo Clinic Diet Assessment - Mayo Clinic Press, Mayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book - Mayo Clinic Press, Financial Assistance Documents Minnesota, Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), Book: Mayo Clinic Family Health Book, 5th Edition, Newsletter: Mayo Clinic Health Letter Digital Edition, Essential Thrombocythemia: Looking for information and support. Peripheral blood contains more than 20 percent plasma cells. A decreased alpha1-protein band may occur because of alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency or decreased production of the globulin as a result of liver disease. Monoclonal gammopathies of undetermined significance. On the left a serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) of a patient with a monoclonal band in the gamma region is shown. M-protein level is greater than 3 g per dL. Malnutrition, significant liver disease, renal loss (e.g., in nephrotic syndrome), hormone therapy, and pregnancy may account for a low albumin level. When is an immunofixation test indicated? To view unlimited content, log in or register for free. This test is most often used to help diagnose or monitor a variety of different conditions. It's easier to check your kidney health at home now more than ever. We look forward to connecting with you. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Learn why immunohistochemistry is the gold standard in testing for certain diseases, including several cancers. Characteristic differentiating features of the monoclonal gammopathies are listed in Table 4.7, In some patients with a plasma cell dyscrasia, serum protein electrophoresis may be normal because the complete monoclonal immunoglobulin is absent or is present at a very low level.7 In one series,6 serum protein electrophoresis showed a spike or localized band in only 82 percent of patients with multiple myeloma. Affected patients have hyperviscosity and hypercellular bone marrow with extensive infiltration by lymphoplasma cells. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Haematologica. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is a type of laboratory test that uses special dyes to identify mutations of specific chromosomes in cells. [QxMD MEDLINE Link]. Characterized by a sharp peak in the beta-gamma region, monoclonal gammopathies involve increased production of immunoglobulins, or antibodies (IgA, IgG, IgM, etc.). Arch Pathol Lab Med. This is a test that determines whether abnormal plasma cells are present in a liquid sample of bone marrow aspirate or blood. What specimens can be used to perform an immunofixation test? In addition, a beta2 microglobulin test, a CRP test, and a 24-hour urine collection for electrophoresis and immunofixation should be performed. The alpha2 component is increased as an acute-phase reactant. The presence of oligoclonal bands in CSF but not in the serum, given their intrathecal production, is helpful in the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. All material on this website is protected by copyright, Copyright 1994-2023 by WebMD LLC. This sample is often difficult to collect, and suboptimal collection might alter the result. Yet, every person's myeloma is unique. No Monoclonal Protein in a Patient with CRAB Features Plasma protein levels display reasonably predictable changes in response to acute inflammation, malignancy, trauma, necrosis, infarction, burns, and chemical injury. Some people may experience a rash or nerve problems, such as numbness or tingling. Register now at no charge to access unlimited clinical news, full-length features, case studies, conference coverage, and more. 2010. The albumin level is decreased under circumstances in which there is less production of the protein by the liver or in which there is increased loss or degradation of this protein. Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) (adult). . The test may also be performed again in the future. Available from: Cancer.Net [Internet]. 2nd Ed, Kindle. In most cases in which a monoclonal protein is present, it shows as a narrow band at the IgG lane in combination with a monoclonal band at the kappa or lambda lane. 5 fractions are shown in this image: albumin, alpha-1 ( 1 ), alpha-2 ( 2 ), beta () and gamma (). Urine Test. Immunofixation (IFE) Blood Test: MedlinePlus Medical Test 2015 Oct. 47 (6):564-9. what does no apparent monoclonal protein on serum electrophoresis mean Immunoelectrophoresis - urine - UCSF Health Malignancy and acute inflammation (resulting from acute-phase reactants) can increase the alpha1-protein band. Immunoglobulins, known as Igs, are a group of proteins that help protect your body from illness. Beta1 is composed mostly of transferrin, and beta2 contains beta-lipoprotein. The proteins are separated into 5 or 6 fractions and displayed as a curve and corresponding gel pattern. A monoclonal protein is produced by the abnormal, cancerous or precancerous cells. Pathology. In zone electrophoresis, for example, different protein subtypes are placed in separate physical locations on a gel made from agar, cellulose, or other plant material.2,3 The proteins are stained, and their densities are calculated electronically to provide graphical data on the absolute and relative amounts of the various proteins. Diagnosis of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance. How is a urine sample collected for an immunofixation test? This content does not have an Arabic version. People with monoclonal gammopathy generally don't experience signs or symptoms. These tests are done in conjunction with immunofixation for example, serum immunofixation electrophoresis (SIFE), which identifies immunoglobulins in blood samples. ; 2014 Mar 14 [cited 2020 Jan 22]; [about 3 screens]. Common causes of low levels include: Your diagnosis will depend on which specific protein levels were not normal, and whether the levels were too high or too low. Medscape Drugs & Diseases. 147:22-42. 2019 Jun 20. If multiple myeloma still is considered clinically in a patient who does not have an M-protein spike on serum protein electrophoresis, urine protein electrophoresis should be performed. Retrieved from, Understanding serum protein electrophoresis, What abnormal results for SPEP test may mean, How test results may be used to decide future care, urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentid=protein_electrophoresis_serum, labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/electrophoresis, Serum Thyroxine-Binding Globulin (TBG) Level Test, Everything You Should Know About a Hair Strand Drug Test, Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI. No monoclonal protein detected M-PROTEIN ISOTYPE MALDI-TOF MS FLAG Negative Interpretation Monoclonal Gammopathies: -A characteristic monoclonal band (M-spike) is often found on serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) in the gamma globulin region and, more rarely, in the beta or alpha-2 regions. Kaplan JS, Horowitz GL. The most common type of myeloma is IgG kappa, occurring in approximately 52 % of patients. Patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance require close follow-up because about 1 percent per year develop multiple myeloma or another malignant monoclonal gammopathy.13 [Evidence level B, prospective cohort study] An algorithm for the follow-up of patients with a monoclonal gammopathy is provided in Figure 3.6. When screening a patient or establishing a first-time diagnosis for a monoclonal gammopathy, consider ordering DMOGA / Monoclonal Gammopathy, Diagnostic, Serum instead, which includes free light chain analysis. Urine IFE tests are often done if IFE blood test results were not normal. If I Ever Get Around To Living Lyrics, Cora Massy Drive, Carol Of The Bells Ukrainian, Que Es Marketing Mix, Ride The Tiger Meaning Jfk, Mens Locket Pendant, Mathews Vertix Vs Triax, David Goggins Clothing Uk, Among 161 patients in whom both serum and urine demonstrated positive results for monoclonal protein and who were, posttreatment, negative for serum immunofixation, just 3 (1.9%) displayed positive urine immunofixation. [10, 17], A 24-hour concentrated urine sample is appropriate for urine immunofixation. When these are removed, a liquid is left behind. M-Spike - Lab Results explained | HealthMatters.io San Francisco: Said Support; c2013-2016. A total protein test can determine whether you have high blood protein. What is the clinical application of an immunofixation test? Morrow ES Jr. Allscripts EPSi. Detection of oligoclonal bands in cerebrospinal fluid by immunofixation electrophoresis. Keep in mind that these are just clues. In the interpretation of serum protein electrophoresis, most attention focuses on the gamma region, which is composed predominantly of antibodies of the IgG type. The M protein has an incomplete heavy chain and no light chain. [1] Serum or urine immunofixation negative for a monoclonal protein or a polyclonal pattern is considered to be normal. Copyright 2023 American Academy of Family Physicians. Serum protein electrophoresis is used to identify patients with multiple myeloma and other serum protein disorders. Sign-upto receive the latest news on BCIT. Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) is a condition in which an abnormal protein known as monoclonal protein or M protein is in your blood. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. Lab Tests Online [Internet]. Available from: Hinkle J, Cheever K. Brunner & Suddarth's Handbook of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. In fact, if no monoclonal component is detected by serum protein electrophoresis, immunofixation interpretation with bone marrow evaluation determines the type of response, stratifying. Immunofixation: Reference Range, Interpretation, Collection and Panels Home Decision Support in Medicine LabMed, Monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance (MGUS), Low concentration of monoclonal immunoglobulins (LCMI). Washington D.C.: American Association for Clinical Chemistry; c20012019. [Full Text]. The next five components (globulins) are labeled alpha1, alpha2, beta1, beta2, and gamma. Cancer.Net [Internet]. 95:2126-33. Electrophoresis is a method of separating proteins based on their physical properties. When the whole immunoglobulin is present in the urine, it is usually at a low level. Monoclonal gammopathies are associated with a clonal process that is malignant or potentially malignant, including multiple myeloma, Waldenstrms macroglobulinemia, solitary plasmacytoma, smoldering multiple myeloma, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance, plasma cell leukemia, heavy chain disease, and amyloidosis. Genetic changes and environmental triggers appear to play a role. This content does not have an English version. 2018 Sep 7. This material may not otherwise be downloaded, copied, printed, stored, transmitted or reproduced in any medium, whether now known or later invented, except as authorized in writing by the AAFP. Figure 1 shows a typical normal pattern for the distribution of proteins as determined by serum protein electrophoresis. Once the serum samples are run on the analyzer, a technologist compares the curves with patients previous results and ensures the fractions are appropriately delineated. Kidney or liver disease, a condition involving inflammation, poor nutrition, Disease leading to inflammation (condition may be chronic or acute), Liver disease, congenital emphysema (rare), Kidney disease, disease leading to inflammation (condition may be chronic or acute), Liver disease, poor nutrition, breakdown of red blood cells, Anemia, multiple myeloma, high cholesterol, Rheumatoid arthritis, infection, liver cirrhosis, inflammatory disease, multiple myeloma, lymphoma. There are several reasons a patients SPE curve could be abnormal. excess of an abnormal immunoglobulin called monoclonal protein (or M protein). Affected patients have few bone lesions and few hematologic disturbances. You are being redirected to One pathologic reason which we covered at BCIT is a monoclonal gammopathy. Multiple Myeloma: Diagnosis; 2018 Jul [cited 2019 Dec 10]; [about 3 screens]. [Full Text]. This is serum. Complete Blood Count (CBC). For patients with MGUS and high risk for progression to multiple myeloma, surveillance should be performed at 6 months and then yearly thereafter. 109:585-8. The speed of movement is dictated by their charge. Last medically reviewed on October 20, 2016, Proteins are found in the blood of healthy people. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Serum protein electrophoresis is a laboratory examination that commonly is used to identify patients with multiple myeloma and other disorders of serum protein. Immunoglobulins are secreted by plasma cells, a type of white blood cell in the bone marrow, in response to infection and disease. Lahuerta JJ, Jimenez-Ubieto A, Paiva B, et al. 2011. The net charge (positive or negative) and the size and shape of the protein commonly are used in differentiating various serum proteins.1. 5 fractions are shown in this image: albumin, alpha-1 (1), alpha-2 (2), beta () and gamma (). These tests also can identify the specific protein type involved in your high blood protein levels. Electrophoresis is not usually used by itself to diagnose a disease. [14], Mass spectrometry is sometimes employed in place of immunofixation because of the latters limitations, such as in the detection of low-level disease. Other more-specific tests, including serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP), can help determine the exact source, such as liver or bone marrow. Blood. What does no monoclonal protein detected mean - DQKD Following my rotation in Anatomical Pathology, I spent one week on accessioning review and another three in Chemistry. In this case, the IgM lane, which is normally absent, is broad with smooth borders. Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and smoldering (asymptomatic) multiple myeloma: IMWG consensus perspectives risk factors for progression and guidelines for monitoring and management. The "M" technically stands for "monoclonal," but M protein is often referred to as myeloma protein.