Protein Electrophoresis (Serum)

Serum protein electrophoresis separates blood proteins into albumin and globulin fractions (alpha‑1, alpha‑2, beta, gamma) to measure relative amounts and identify abnormal patterns. It detects monoclonal “M” spikes or polyclonal gammopathy, helping diagnose and monitor conditions such as multiple myeloma, MGUS, Waldenström’s, chronic inflammation, liver disease, and some kidney or immune disorders.

Electrophoresis detects protein and hemoglobin abnormalities and is used to diagnose monoclonal gammopathies (multiple myeloma, MGUS, Waldenström), polyclonal responses from chronic inflammation or liver disease, and nephrotic syndrome–related changes. Hemoglobin electrophoresis identifies hemoglobinopathies like sickle cell disease and thalassemias. DNA electrophoresis aids molecular diagnostics by revealing fragment-size changes in genetic disorders and mutation analyses.

If serum total protein is high, it often reflects increased antibodies or dehydration. Causes include chronic infections, inflammation, immune disorders and blood cancers (e.g., multiple myeloma). High protein can cause thickened blood, kidney strain, fatigue, bone pain and recurrent infections. Doctors investigate with repeat tests, serum protein electrophoresis, urine protein, imaging and refer to specialists. Evaluation and treatment depend on the underlying cause.

Serum protein electrophoresis normal ranges: total serum protein 6.0–8.3 g/dL. Typical fractions: albumin 3.5–5.0 g/dL (≈50–65%); alpha‑1 0.1–0.3 g/dL (≈2–5%); alpha‑2 0.6–1.0 g/dL (≈8–13%); beta 0.7–1.1 g/dL (≈8–14%); gamma 0.7–1.5 g/dL (≈12–22%). Abnormal peaks or altered proportions suggest monoclonal gammopathy, inflammation, or liver disease and require clinical correlation.

Serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) is ordered to check for abnormal proteins in the blood. It detects and measures albumin and different globulins, finds monoclonal “spikes” seen in multiple myeloma or monoclonal gammopathy, and helps evaluate unexplained fatigue, infections, weight loss, kidney or liver problems, and immune disorders. Results guide further testing and monitoring.

A normal total serum protein is generally about 6.0–8.3 g/dL (60–83 g/L). Individual components: albumin typically runs about 3.5–5.0 g/dL and total globulins about 2.0–3.5 g/dL. Reference ranges can vary slightly by laboratory, age, hydration and clinical context, so abnormal results should be interpreted by a healthcare professional. Pregnancy and chronic illness may alter levels.