Protein electrophoresis blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Serum protein electrophoresis passes a small blood sample through a gel or fluid under an electric current, which separates proteins into bands according to their size and charge. The main bands are albumin and several globulin fractions. The pattern shows whether any group is unusually high or low and whether there is a narrow, distinct band, called a paraprotein, that can be produced by a single family of plasma cells.

Alongside the electrophoresis pattern, the test measures total protein, albumin and globulin, plus the three main antibody classes: immunoglobulin A (IgA), immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin M (IgM). Albumin is made by the liver and reflects nutrition, liver and kidney health, while immunoglobulins reflect the activity of your immune system.

The price includes your sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a review of your result with an Omnia practitioner, and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• A previous blood test showed raised total protein or globulin and you want it followed up.
• Your GP or specialist has asked for protein electrophoresis or immunoglobulin levels.
• You have frequent or slow to clear infections and would like your antibody levels checked.
• You have been told you have a paraprotein and are having it monitored.
• You have unexplained bone pain, tiredness or raised calcium and your clinician wants more information.

Understanding your result

Your report shows the laboratory reference range for each protein and a written description of the electrophoresis pattern. A broad rise in globulins is common with infection, inflammation and some liver conditions. Low immunoglobulins can point to reduced antibody production, while low albumin may reflect liver, kidney, nutritional or inflammatory causes.

If a paraprotein is seen, it usually needs further tests and medical follow-up. Many paraproteins are found in a condition called MGUS, which becomes more common with age and is often monitored rather than treated, but the finding always needs clinical assessment. Treat any value outside the range as a reason to talk it through, not as a diagnosis.

Preparing for your test

No fasting is needed for this test and it can be taken at any time of day. Let us know about any recent infection, vaccination, immunoglobulin treatment or immune-suppressing medicine, as these can affect antibody levels. Bring copies of any earlier protein results so your practitioner can compare them.

Because albumin and globulin are produced or influenced by the liver, our liver function tests and the Full Blood Count are often useful alongside this. To browse further, our main page sets out every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a protein electrophoresis test in Chiswick?

Protein Electrophoresis costs £269 at Omnia Lifestyle in Chiswick. This includes your blood sample, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

What is a paraprotein?

A paraprotein is a single type of antibody produced in excess by one family of plasma cells. It shows as a sharp band on electrophoresis and always needs medical follow-up to understand its cause.

Can this test diagnose myeloma?

No single test diagnoses myeloma. Electrophoresis is one of several tests doctors use, and any abnormal pattern is assessed alongside other blood and urine tests, imaging and specialist review.

Do I need to fast?

No. You can eat and drink normally beforehand and take your usual medicines unless your doctor has told you otherwise.