Protein Electrophoresis, Serum Test

The laboratory technique of Protein Electrophoresis Serum is to measure and detect the levels of various proteins in a blood sample. The doctor may ask you to go for a test as such for a number of varied reasons. The test helps in the detection of a number of disorders or syndromes associated with the abnormal fall or rise in the levels of various proteins. The fact that the Electrophoresis technique cannot be used independently is something which cannot be denied. Thus, it comes with a combination of other laboratory tests to give accurate and reliable results.

Some labs might ask you to visit them first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, not even water while others might just ask you to come on time. Except this, there is no other preparation needed. The sample is taken by injecting or inserting a needle. Some patients experience a slight stingy pain, while some experience a little bruising afterward which is not really serious. Keep an eye on the needle used by the healthcare professional. It has to be a new one and should be disposed off once the sample is taken.

You are asked to go through an Electrophoresis Serum Test if you are experiencing:
Fatigue
Sudden and unexplainable weight loss
Constipation
Excessive thirst
Bone pain
Frequent fractures
Weakness
Conditions that could be causing such symptoms are as follows:
Cancer
Thyroid problems
Anaemia
Malnutrition
Thyroid disorders
An autoimmune syndrome
Multiple Sclerosis
The test helps to understand the direction of these symptoms and indicate the disorder, disease or the abnormal levels of various proteins in your body. The technique used demands highly equipped equipment which works on a definite principle of electrophoresis.

Electrophoresis technique: Place the plate containing cellulose acetate into the electrophoresis chamber, side down. Put some weight, a coin or a glass plate on the plate. This will keep the plate fixed and in contact with the wicks. Make sure the plate is covered securely. The process shall take about 30 seconds to equilibrate. Wait for 30 seconds. Once equilibrated, the plate can now be electrophoresed at 180 volts for about 15 minutes. Be careful about applying power to the plate for it should be applied 5 minutes after the plate is placed in the chamber. The Electrophoresis technique verifies the distinct phases and can be used all along.