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Immunofixation (IFE) Serum Test

The Immunofixation (IFE) Serum Test detects and identifies monoclonal immunoglobulin gammopathies, which may indicate conditions such as multiple myeloma or Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia.

Sample Report

Test Code: 001685

CPT Code: 82784(x3), 86334

Also Known As: Electrophoresis, Serum, IFE, IEP, Serum, IFE, Serum, Immunoelectrophoresis, Serum, Immunofixation, Serum IEP, Serum Immunoelectrophoresis, Serum Immunofixation, IFX

Methodology: Electrophoresis followed by immunodiffusion against monospecific antisera to immunoglobulin and individual heavy and light chains (IFE); turbidimetric quantitation of IgA, IgG, and IgM

Specimen Type: Blood

Preparation: Fasting for 10-12 hours required.

Test Results: 2-3 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.

Sample Report

Test Code: 549

CPT Code: 86334

Also Known As: Electrophoresis, Serum, IFE, IEP, Serum, IFE, Serum, Immunoelectrophoresis, Serum, Immunofixation, Serum IEP, Serum Immunoelectrophoresis, Serum Immunofixation, IFX

Methodology: Immunofixation

Specimen Type: Blood

Preparation: Fasting for 10-12 hours required.

Test Results: 2-3 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.

Description

An IFE test detects immunoglobulins, also known as antibodies, in the blood, including IgA, IgG, and IgM. It is most often ordered to evaluate a monoclonal globulin detected in a protein electrophoresis or to delineate a possible lymphoproliferative process, particularly myeloma. The procedure characterizes the specific heavy and light chain components of a monoclonal protein.

The IFE test is often used to diagnose multiple myeloma or Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia, when symptoms of the disorders are present. Both conditions produce abnormal Ig. Clinical symptoms of multiple myeloma include:

  • bone pain in the back or ribs
  • weakness and fatigue
  • weight loss
  • broken bones
  • recurrent infections
  • weakness in the legs
  • nausea/vomiting

Clinical symptoms of Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia include:

  • weakness
  • severe fatigue
  • bleeding from the nose or gums
  • weight loss
  • bruises or other skin lesions
  • blurred vision
  • swelling of the lymph nodes, spleen, or liver

This test alone cannot be used to make a diagnosis. The test only indicates whether abnormal Ig is present.

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