Test Preparation : No special preparation required
Sample : SERUM
Methodlogy : Agarose Gel Electrophoresis
Description :
WHAT IS IT?
A laboratory diagnostic procedure known as the electrophoresis serum test is used to separate and examine the different proteins contained in the liquid component of blood known as serum. It is a useful tool for clinical chemistry and pathology, and is largely used to detect and measure various protein types, such as albumin, globulins, and certain protein fractions. During the test, a patient's tiny blood sample is taken, and the serum is separated from the blood's cellular components. The next step is to put this serum to electrophoresis, a process that moves proteins across a gel or other material using an electrical field. Because serum proteins travel at varying rates depending on their size and charge, they may be divided into various bands or zones on a gel. The electrophoretic pattern that is produced offers important details on the relative quantities of various proteins in the blood, which can be a sign of a number of different medical disorders. For instance, changes in the albumin-to-globulin ratio or the appearance of aberrant protein bands may point to multiple myeloma, liver illness, inflammatory diseases, or other problems. Therefore, the electrophoresis serum test is essential in the diagnosis and follow-up of a wide range of disorders, assisting medical practitioners in providing their patients with accurate and focused treatment.
WHY?
Protein electrophoresis is a crucial diagnostic procedure that examines the protein makeup of blood serum. By exposing aberrant patterns or the presence of particular proteins linked to particular disorders, it helps with disease diagnosis. For instance, in diseases like multiple myeloma or amyloidosis, it can identify monoclonal proteins. By detecting variations in albumin and globulin levels, which may signal liver or kidney disorders, it also assists in assessing the health of the liver and kidneys. Elevated amounts of specific protein fractions can indicate an underlying inflammatory condition, and abnormal protein patterns might point to inflammatory or autoimmune illnesses. Protein electrophoresis is essential for tracking the development of disease in patients with established diseases, enabling medical professionals to modify treatment regimens as necessary. By giving a thorough profile of a patient's protein levels, it also offers treatment assistance, aiding medical professionals in selecting the most effective treatments and monitoring their efficacy over time. Potential health problems that are discovered early enough can be treated quickly, increasing patient care and results. Overall, protein electrophoresis is a vital technique for identifying, tracking, and treating a range of medical disorders.
PRECAUTIONS
Tests using protein electrophoresis are a diagnostic method that demand little from the patient. To be ready, talk to your doctor about your current medicines, fast, wear clothes that makes it simple to reach your arms, stay hydrated, and maintain your composure. To reduce potential difficulties, let the lab staff know if you have any bleeding disorders or are using any blood-thinning drugs. Follow your healthcare provider's post-test recommendations, which may include getting back to your regular routine, keeping an eye out for any unexpected symptoms, or changing your medication as necessary. This procedure guarantees reliable outcomes and a painless blood draw.
