Bloody Minded Episode 27 - In The Lab: Electrophoresis, Immunoelectrophoresis and Serum Free Light Chain Assays
Dec 10, 2024
Dive into the world of hematology as hosts unravel the complexities of diagnosing multiple myeloma. Learn how bone marrow samples are analyzed and the pivotal role of techniques like electrophoresis and immunoelectrophoresis. Discover the importance of Bence-Jones proteins and how serum-free light chain testing can be confounding. With humor and insight, the discussion sheds light on diagnosing conditions and the fascinating interplay between proteins and disease.
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Bone Marrow Plasma Cell Discrepancies
- Plasma cells can cluster in bone marrow aspirates and trephine biopsies may show different percentages.
- The highest percentage, often from the trephine, determines the diagnosis of myeloma presence.
Electrophoresis Protein Separation
- Electrophoresis separates serum proteins based on charge, size, and shape in a gel using an electric current.
- Different serum proteins distribute into labeled zones seen as peaks on an electrophoretogram.
Immunoelectrophoresis Identifies Paraproteins
- Immunoelectrophoresis uses specific antibodies to identify the type of paraprotein after electrophoresis.
- Antibodies against heavy and light chains help confirm the isotype and light chain type of paraproteins.