Immunoglobulins and Electrophoresis

Department of Immunology

Notes

• IgG, IgA and IgM levels are measured. Serum Capillary Zone Electrophoresis is performed alongside to look for abnormal paraprotein bands. Any newly identified paraproteins are typed, quantified and should be monitored long term as per the BSH Guidelines for Myeloma 2021.
• Low levels of immunoglobulins can be seen in immunodeficiency, primary or secondary to other causes (e.g. immunosuppressive treatment, lymphoproliferative disorders or protein deficiency states).
• Can also be used to monitor patients having immunoglobulin replacement therapy.
• Isolated IgA deficiency is a common, typically benign, incidental finding; present in 1/400 of the health population. It is unlikely to be clinically significant unless the patient has had recurrent unexplained infections.
• Polyclonal increases in immunoglobulins can be seen in chronic infections, autoimmune diseases, liver disease and malignancies.

Sample Requirements

Clotted blood (No patient preparation or special handling required)

Adult

5ml Gold-top SST tube or 3.5ml Rust-top gel tube (Trust users only)

Paediatric

1ml Serum Sample

Assay interferences

Microbially contaminated, heat-treated, grossly haemolysed, icteric or lipaemic specimens should be avoided.

Time Limit for Add-ons

3 days

Turnaround Times

7 days

Reference Ranges

Individual classes have age related ranges. See individual reports for age-specific ranges.

Adult (16-60 years) ranges are broadly as follows: