Protein Electrophoresis, Serum

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Serum Protein Electrophoresis, SPE, SPEP, PEP
Laboratory	Core Laboratory & Transfusion Medicine
Sub-section	Biochemistry
Specimen Type	Blood
Test Code	GPCS1

Clinical Significance

Identifying monoclonal immunoglobulins associated with malignancies including multiple myeloma.

Specimen Requirements (Sample Type)

Serum

Specimen Requirements (Volume (mL))

0.5 mL

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

Serum (Gold SST)
Collection Containers – Tube Types

Collection Requirements

Blood Collection Instructions

Sample Stability

Room Temperature: 4 days

Fridge: 2 weeks @ 2-8°C

Freezer: 6 months @ -20°C

Cause for Rejection

Specimen Acceptability and Transport Guidance

Instrument, Methodology

Helena ESH Touch, electrophoresis

Test Availability

Weekdays

Routine Turnaround Time

2 weeks

Reference Ranges

Albumin: 32 - 45 g/L
Alpha-1: 1.6 - 3.2 g/L
Alpha-2: 6.2 - 11.7 g/L
Beta: 6.5 - 12.4 g/L
Gamma: 7.5 - 18.0 g/L

In case of discrepancies, always interpret results using reference ranges as stated on laboratory reports and/or electronic patient chart.

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4688

Ordering Practices

When an abnormal pattern or M spike is detected, the laboratory will reflex to Immunofixation, Serum.

The International Myeloma Working Group recommend a minimum of 3 months between consecutive measurements. In line with this, serum protein electrophoresis cannot be repeated within 75 days on the same patient and will be cancelled with an automated comment.