Serum Protein Electrophoresis (SPEP) is a blood test that separates and measures different proteins in the blood based on their electrical properties. It helps evaluate abnormalities in protein levels and patterns, including changes in albumin and immunoglobulins. The test is needed to investigate conditions such as multiple myeloma, monoclonal gammopathies, chronic inflammation, liver disease, kidney disorders, and unexplained abnormalities in total protein levels.
SPEP typically separates serum proteins into albumin, alpha-1, alpha-2, beta, and gamma fractions. Changes in these fractions can provide clues about certain diseases.
Albumin is the most abundant protein in blood and helps maintain fluid balance and transport various substances. Abnormal albumin levels may occur with liver disease, kidney disease, malnutrition, or other conditions.
The gamma region contains many immunoglobulins, or antibodies. Changes in this region can occur with infections, inflammation, immune disorders, and monoclonal protein production.
An M-protein is an abnormal immunoglobulin produced by a single population of plasma cells or B cells. Its presence may require further testing to determine its significance.
SPEP can identify protein patterns suggestive of a monoclonal protein associated with multiple myeloma, but it cannot diagnose multiple myeloma by itself. Additional tests are generally required.