SERUM IMMUNOFIXATION TEST Meaning and
Definition
-
A serum immunofixation test, commonly referred to as IFX, is a diagnostic laboratory procedure used to detect and analyze abnormal proteins called monoclonal immunoglobulins or M-proteins in the blood. This test is primarily employed to diagnose and monitor various blood disorders such as multiple myeloma, Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, and other related conditions.
The procedure involves separating the blood's serum component, which contains the proteins of interest, and then using an electrophoresis technique to separate the proteins by their charge and size. To detect and identify any abnormal proteins present, an immunofixation technique is used. This method involves combining the serum with antibodies that specifically bind to different types of immunoglobulins, which are proteins produced by cells of the immune system.
The serum sample is applied to a gel plate and an electric current is applied, causing the proteins to migrate through the gel based on their charge and size. The antibodies in the gel will then bind to the specific immunoglobulin types they are designed for. This allows for the identification of any abnormal or monoclonal proteins present based on their characteristic patterns or bands observed.
The serum immunofixation test is a highly sensitive and specific method for detecting even small amounts of abnormal proteins, aiding in the diagnosis and management of various blood disorders. The results obtained from this test play a crucial role in determining the appropriate treatment approach for patients and monitoring disease progression or response to therapy.
