Protein, Total and Protein Electrophoresis, 24 Hour Urine and Immunofixation
Urine
Performed by: Quest Diagnostics
The test panel comprising Protein, Total and Protein Electrophoresis, 24 Hour Urine, and Immunofixation is an important diagnostic tool used in medical laboratories to assess and monitor various health conditions. The Total Protein test measures the total amount of protein in the urine over a 24-hour period and is crucial in evaluating kidney function and diagnosing kidney disorders. High levels of protein in urine, known as proteinuria, can indicate kidney damage or disease, as the kidneys are normally responsible for preventing excessive protein loss.
Protein Electrophoresis, specifically in a 24-hour urine sample, separates proteins based on their size and charge. This test is vital for identifying the specific types of proteins being excreted, which can provide valuable insights into underlying health issues. For example, the presence of abnormal proteins, like Bence Jones protein, can be an indicator of multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer.
Immunofixation is another critical component of this panel. It is used to identify specific proteins, particularly immunoglobulins, in the urine. This test is particularly important in diagnosing and monitoring monoclonal gammopathies, conditions where a type of immune cell produces an abnormal amount of a single type of antibody. Immunofixation helps in differentiating between various types of monoclonal gammopathies, including multiple myeloma, Waldenström's macroglobulinemia, and others.
Together, these tests provide a comprehensive overview of protein levels and types in the urine, assisting healthcare professionals in diagnosing and managing a range of disorders, especially those related to the kidneys and immune system. Abnormal results from these tests often necessitate further investigation to pinpoint the exact cause and determine the appropriate course of treatment. The synergy of these tests lies in their ability to offer both a broad and detailed view of protein metabolism and excretion, making them indispensable in modern clinical diagnostics.
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Biomarkers included in this panel:
In the context of a Protein Electrophoresis test, particularly for urine, the albumin percentage is an important indicator. This test typically involves separating different proteins found in the urine based on their physical properties, and then qua
Learn moreIn a urine protein electrophoresis test, which is part of the panel including Total Protein and Protein Electrophoresis, 24 Hour Urine, the Alpha-1-Globulins percentage is an important parameter to consider. Alpha-1-globulins are a group of plasma pr
Learn moreAlpha-2 globulins is a class of proteins that has many functions in the body and is involved in inflammation.
Learn moreBeta globulins are a group of proteins in the blood plasma that include transferrin, hemopexin, complement proteins, and low-density lipoproteins (LDL). The beta globulins percentage provides insight into the composition of proteins excreted in th
Learn moreCreatinine is a waste product produced by muscles and is typically filtered out of the blood by the kidneys. By measuring the amount of creatinine excreted in the urine over a 24-hour period, this test helps assess kidney function. Consistent levels
Learn moreIn a Protein Electrophoresis test, part of panels like Total Protein and Protein Electrophoresis, 24 Hour Urine, the "pattern" refers to the arrangement and distribution of protein fractions (such as albumin, alpha-1, alpha-2, beta, and gam
Learn moreThe "Protein, Total, 24 HR Urine" marker in this panel is a critical measure for evaluating kidney function and detecting kidney disorders. It quantifies the total amount of protein excreted in urine over a 24-hour period. Normally, healthy
Learn moreThe Protein/Creatinine Ratio in a test panel that includes Total Protein and Protein Electrophoresis, 24 Hour Urine, is a significant indicator of kidney function and health. This ratio compares the amount of protein to the amount of creatinine in a
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