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.
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.
