Immunofixation Electrophoresis, Serum - Quantitative

The Immunoglobulin Profile measures the levels of three primary classes of immunoglobulins: immunoglobulin A (IgA), immunoglobulin M (IgM), and immunoglobulin G (IgG), which play crucial roles in the body’s immune response. IgA is found mainly in mucous membranes and protects against infections at mucosal surfaces, like the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. IgM is the first antibody produced in response to an infection and provides initial immune defense. IgG, the most abundant antibody in the bloodstream, provides long-term immunity and helps protect against bacterial and viral infections. This profile helps diagnose immune deficiencies, autoimmune diseases, and chronic infections. Additionally, it monitors the immune system’s overall health.

The Free Light Chains (Kappa & Lambda), Serum test measures the free (unbound) kappa and lambda light chains in the blood. Light chains are small proteins produced by plasma cells, a type of white blood cell. They can combine with other proteins (heavy chains) to form immunoglobulins, or antibodies, which help fight infections. When light chains are produced in excess, they do not combine with heavy chains and instead enter the blood in a "free" state, unbound to heavy chains. 

This test also determines the balance or ratio of kappa to lambda light chains in the blood (kappa: lambda ratio) which can provide valuable information about disorders related to plasma cells, such as multiple myeloma, a type of bone marrow cancer. It is also useful in monitoring treatment response and disease progression in these conditions.

The Protein Electrophoresis, Serum test measures the concentration and distribution of specific proteins (like albumin, alpha globulins, beta globulins, and gamma globulins) in the blood. Each of these plays a vital role in bodily functions. This test aids in the detection of abnormal proteins, particularly monoclonal (M) proteins. The presence of M proteins may indicate plasma cell disorders such as multiple myeloma (a blood cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow). Also, this test helps diagnose and monitor various blood disorders.