Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: Overnight fasting preferred, but not required
- Turnaround: 6 days (may take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays)
What This Test Measures
The Immunofixation (IFE) Serum Test detects and identifies monoclonal immunoglobulins in your blood, including Immunoglobulin A, Immunoglobulin G, and Immunoglobulin M, along with an overall immunofixation result and interpretation. This test characterizes the specific heavy and light chain components of a monoclonal protein when one is present.
This test can be used to evaluate a monoclonal globulin previously detected on a protein electrophoresis, or to help delineate a possible lymphoproliferative process. It identifies whether an abnormal immunoglobulin is present and characterizes its components, but this test alone cannot be used to make a diagnosis.
Benefits
- Identifies and characterizes monoclonal immunoglobulins in serum
- Measures Immunoglobulin A, G, and M levels quantitatively
- Helps characterize heavy and light chain components
- Supports evaluation of a monoclonal globulin found on electrophoresis
- Provides an interpretation to support further clinical evaluation
Who Is This Test For?
- Individuals with bone pain in the back or ribs
- People experiencing unexplained weakness or fatigue
- Individuals with unexplained weight loss
- People with recurrent infections
- Individuals with swelling of the lymph nodes, spleen, or liver
- People with a monoclonal globulin previously found on electrophoresis
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. Do I need to fast before this test, and are there other factors that could affect my results?
Overnight fasting is preferred but not required. If possible, fast for 10 to 12 hours before your blood draw, as eating during this period may affect some test results. Because this test measures immunoglobulin levels and monoclonal protein components, proper specimen collection and handling are also important for accurate results.
2. How quickly will I get results?
Results are generally available in 6 days. This timeframe may take longer depending on weather, holidays, or other lab delays.
3. Can this test diagnose a blood disorder by itself?
No single laboratory result can establish a diagnosis on its own. The Immunofixation (IFE) Serum Test identifies whether an abnormal immunoglobulin is present and characterizes its components, but interpretation depends on your full clinical picture. Additional evaluation is typically needed to reach a diagnosis, and this test does not confirm or rule out any specific condition by itself.
4. How do I interpret my results?
Results from this test report the presence, absence, or characteristics of monoclonal immunoglobulins, along with quantitative levels of Immunoglobulin A, G, and M. The meaning of these results depends on the specific findings and your broader clinical context, so they should be reviewed with a qualified healthcare provider for proper interpretation.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
5. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
If your results fall outside the expected range, review them with a qualified healthcare provider. They can help determine whether additional evaluation or testing is appropriate based on your individual health history and clinical presentation.
Pre test preparation
Overnight fasting preferred, but not required
