IMMUNOFIXATION ELECTROPHORESIS (IFE) - 24 HOUR URINE
🧬 Gold Standard for M-ProteinReport: 3rd Working Day 📅
(Sample cutoff: 4:30 PM for standard processing)
🛒 Add to Cart 📲 Book on WhatsApp📋 Test Specifications
- Report Turnaround: 3rd Working Day.
- Sample Required: 24-Hour Urine Collection.
- Methodology: Gel Electrophoresis + Immunofixation.
- Parameters: IgG, IgA, IgM, Kappa, Lambda light chains.
- Precision: High Sensitivity for Bence Jones Proteins.
What is the Urine IFE Test?
Immunofixation Electrophoresis (IFE) of urine is a specialized test used to identify specific types of abnormal proteins called Monoclonal Proteins (M-proteins) or Bence Jones proteins.
While a standard urine protein test tells you how much protein is there, this test tells you exactly what type of protein it is (e.g., Kappa or Lambda light chains). This identification is crucial for diagnosing cancers of the plasma cells.
🔴 Diagnosing Multiple Myeloma
This test is primarily used to diagnose and monitor:
- Multiple Myeloma: A cancer where plasma cells produce abnormal antibodies that damage kidneys.
- Waldenstrom's Macroglobulinemia: A rare type of blood cancer.
- Amyloidosis: Where abnormal proteins build up in organs.
Why is a 24-Hour Sample Needed?
Abnormal proteins are often excreted in urine irregularly throughout the day. A single spot1 quiz urine sample might miss them. By collecting every drop of urine passed in 24 hours, we get the total daily excretion, making the test much more accurate for detecting kidney involvement.
How to Collect a 24-Hour Urine Sample
Strict Adherence Required: Failure to collect properly will result in a wrong report.
- Day 1 (Start): Wake up at 8 AM and urinate into the toilet (flush it). Do not collect this first urine. Note the time.
- Collection Period: From then on, collect every single drop of urine passed during the day and night into the large container provided by the lab.
- Day 2 (Finish): Wake up at 8 AM the next day and collect this last urine into the container. The collection is now complete.
- Storage: Keep the container in a cool, dark place (or fridge) during collection.
When is this Test Recommended?
Your Hematologist or Oncologist may order this test if you have:
- High protein levels found in a routine urine test.
- Symptoms like bone pain, fatigue, or unexplained fractures.
- High calcium levels or anemia (low hemoglobin).
- To monitor response to chemotherapy treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No. You must use a clean, dry container (usually 2-3 liters capacity). Often the lab provides a specific container with preservatives. Please contact us before starting collection.
If you miss even one time, the results will be inaccurate. You must discard the urine and start the process again the next day.
This is a complex analytical test. The report is available on the 3rd Working Day after you submit the sample.
Disclaimer: This test detects specific proteins related to hematological conditions. Results must be interpreted by a Hematologist or Oncologist.