What is an immunofixation (IFE) blood test?
An immunofixation blood test, also known as protein electrophoresis, measures certain proteins in the blood. Proteins play many important roles, including providing energy for the body, rebuilding muscles, and supporting the immune system.
There are two main types of proteins in the blood: albumin and globulin. The test separates these proteins into subgroups based on their size and electrical charge. The subgroups are:
Albumin
Alpha-1 globulin
Alpha-2 globulin
Beta globulin
Gamma globulin
Measuring the proteins in each subgroup can help diagnose a variety of diseases.
Other names: serum protein electrophoresis, (SPEP), protein electrophoresis, SPE,  immunofixation electrophoresis, IFE, serum immunofixation
