HematologyOncology

Serum Electrophoresis

Normal Range
Albumin: 3.5-5.0, Alpha-1: 0.1-0.3, Alpha-2: 0.6-1.0, Beta: 0.7-1.2, Gamma: 0.7-1.6 g/dL
Sample Type
Serum
Fasting
No
Unit
g/dL

Function

Serum Protein Electrophoresis (SPEP) is a laboratory technique used to separate proteins in the blood serum based on their net charge, size, and shape. By applying an electric field, the proteins migrate into five distinct fractions: Albumin, Alpha-1, Alpha-2, Beta, and Gamma globulins. This test provides a visual and quantitative profile of the body's protein status.

Why it is Ordered

SPEP is primarily used to screen for monoclonal gammopathies. It is ordered if a patient has symptoms of:

  • Unexplained bone pain or fractures.
  • Persistent anemia or fatigue.
  • Unexplained high calcium levels.
  • Recurrent infections.
  • Abnormal total protein or albumin levels on a metabolic panel.

Associated Conditions

  • Multiple Myeloma: Characterized by a sharp 'M-spike' in the Gamma or Beta region.
  • Waldenström Macroglobulinemia: A type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
  • Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS): A precursor condition to myeloma.
  • Liver Disease: Cirrhosis often shows a 'Beta-Gamma bridge'.
  • Chronic Inflammation: Results in a broad-based increase in the gamma globulin fraction (polyclonal gammopathy).

Panel Components

This test is a profile comprising the following specific markers:

Alpha-2 Globulin
g/dL
Gamma Globulin
g/dL
Beta Globulin
g/dL
Albumin
g/dL
Albumin/Globulin (A/G) Ratio
Ratio
Alpha-1 Globulin
g/dL
Total Protein
g/dL

Why Context Matters

Interpretation of electrophoresis is highly complex and can be affected by the presence of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (used in cancer treatment), which can mimic an 'M-protein' spike. Severe dehydration can falsely elevate protein concentrations. Additionally, the presence of fibrinogen in an inadequately clotted sample (plasma instead of serum) can create a false band in the beta-gamma region, mimicking a pathology that does not exist.

Lab ranges are statistical averages, not biological laws. "Normal" for a 20-year-old male isn't normal for a 60-year-old female.

Clinical References

Source-of-truth databases and clinical guidelines for Serum Electrophoresis:

Research & Guidelines

Related Indicators

Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT)

View Range

Blood Cell Morphology

View Range

AML Comboquest 9

View Range
DR

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Binoy Babu, MBBS

Board Certified Doctor • 10+ Years Clinical Experience

Dr. Babu is a practicing physician dedicated to empowering patients with clear, actionable medical information. He founded 2opi to bridge the gap between complex lab reports and patient understanding, ensuring everyone has access to a reliable second opinion.

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