Medical Health Encyclopedia

Immunofixation - urine

Immunoglobulins (antibodies) appear as a "gamma" band. Immunofixation is a technique to separate this "gamma" band and identify the individual immunoglobulins. It is similar to immunoelectrophoresis, but it may give more rapid results and is more sensitive.

How to prepare for the test:

No special preparation is necessary for this test, but if the collection is being taken from an infant, a couple of extra collection bags may be necessary.

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How the test will feel:

The test involves only normal urination, and there is no discomfort.

Why the test is performed:

The primary use of immunofixation is the identification and monitoring of monoclonal proteins (that is, IgG, IgM, IgA, lambda light chain, and kappa light chain), including those that are present in multiple myeloma and Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia.

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