The immunofixation blood test is used as a way to identify the presence of abnormal proteins. The process of this test, which is called “electrophoresis,” is also used to determine if there are normal proteins that should be present, but are not. It may also identify whether or not regular proteins are at abnormally high or low levels in the blood for some reason.
Identifying protein levels in the blood is important because they have many jobs that are assigned to them every day. Proteins help to provide defenses against foreign bodies. They also help to remove toxins that may be in the body and will transport nutrients to where they need to be. In essence, proteins help to control the metabolic functions of the human body.
There Are 5 Proteins That Are Measured With This Test
The immunofixation blood test will measure 5 different types of proteins and each one may have a high, normal, or low result reported. Abnormal results of one protein will result in an overall abnormal blood test in this instance. Here are the 5 different proteins and what the blood test results mean for each of them.
1. Albumin
- High results:
This is an indication that someone is dehydrated. Persistently high levels of albumin may be an indication of diuretic abuse.
- Low results:
The most common reason for low albumin levels is a pregnancy or an inflammatory condition. It may also occur during instances of malnutrition, liver disease, kidney disease, or if the body is losing proteins for some reason.
2. Alpha 1 Globulin
- High results:
If someone is suffering from chronic or acute inflammation, then it may produce a high result for this protein.
- Low results:
If there are abnormally low results for this protein, then it is typically an indication of the presence of severe liver disease. Some people may also have a genetic form of emphysema that causes low levels.
3. Alpha 2 Globulin
- High results:
The presence of kidney disease and ongoing inflammation will produce high levels of this protein. Severe acute inflammation may also cause it in some individuals.
- Low results:
The most common reason for a low result of this protein is the presence of malnutrition. A severe liver disease may also cause it, as well as hemolysis.
4. Beta Globulin
- High results:
There are two very common reasons why protein results will be high on this portion of the test. High blood cholesterol levels or the presence of an iron deficiency will increase this protein. Sometimes specific cancers may also spike protein levels.
- Low results:
Malnutrition may also cause low protein levels, but so can the presence of liver cirrhosis.
5. Gamma Globulin
- High results:
There are a number of health issues that may cause protein levels to spike. A number of autoimmune disorders will cause high results, including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. The presence of chronic liver diseases and cirrhosis will also cause them to spike. People who have receive a recent vaccine may also see high levels of this protein. It is also very common to see high levels of gamma globulin when there is a malignancy present.
- Low results:
When there is some sort of immune deficiency present, this protein will be seen in lower levels instead. Many different genetic immune disorders will cause the immunofixation blood test to be low, as well as a secondary immune deficiency.
It is important to note that having an abnormal test does not guarantee that there is a malignancy present somewhere in the body. The immunofixation blood test is not used as a screening tool, but it is a useful piece of the puzzle when attempting to determine a definitive diagnosis.
What Is Done To Treat Abnormal Conditions?
For most people who have an abnormal immunofixation blood test, the outcome will result in simple lifestyle changes that will bring test results back to normal over time. This may include dietary changes, reducing the use of painkillers, or taking supplements to remove vitamin or mineral deficiencies. A doctor may also recommend avoiding alcohol and other liver damaging items depending on a specific medical history.
Most people will have a normal immunofixation blood test. For those times when it may be abnormal, be sure to use this guide to determine what the underlying condition may be. Come up with questions to ask your doctor and then work towards developing an effective treatment plan so that you can meet your health goals.