MLT GlobeImmunofixation electrophoresis (IFE)
Protein Electrophoresis · also called IFE, Serum immunofixation, Urine immunofixation
What it measures
Identifies the type of monoclonal protein by heavy chain (IgG, IgA, IgM, IgD, IgE) and light chain (kappa or lambda). It confirms and types abnormal bands seen on protein electrophoresis.
Specimen and preparation
- Specimen: Serum; random or 24-h urine for urine IFE
- Tube: Gold top
Reference range
| Group | Range |
|---|---|
| All | No monoclonal protein detected |
Reference ranges differ between laboratories, methods and populations. Always use the range printed on your own lab report.
Causes of high values
- Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS)
- Multiple myeloma
- Waldenström macroglobulinemia (IgM)
- AL amyloidosis
- B-cell lymphoma or CLL
- Therapeutic monoclonal antibody (e.g. daratumumab) artifact
Method
Agarose gel electrophoresis with specific antisera overlay, or capillary immunosubtraction
Good to know
More sensitive than SPEP but does not quantify the protein. Oligoclonal bands after stem cell transplant are not the same as a new clone.
Related tests
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