Immunofixation-qualitative Serum

Immunofixation (IF) Qualitative Serum is a laboratory test that is used to detect and identify the presence of specific immunoglobulins (Ig) in a person's blood serum. Immunoglobulins are proteins produced by the immune system that play a critical role in fighting off infections and other diseases.

The test involves separating the different types of immunoglobulins present in the serum using a technique called electrophoresis. After separation, the different immunoglobulin types are identified using specific antibodies that bind to each type. This allows for the detection and identification of individual immunoglobulins in the serum. The Immunofixation test is a more precise version of the traditional protein electrophoresis test, which separates proteins in the blood based on their charge and size. The Immunofixation test adds specific antibodies to the separated proteins, which allows the identification of individual immunoglobulin types. The test is considered qualitative because it only detects the presence or absence of certain proteins in the urine, rather than quantifying the amount present.

Written By: Supriya Kulkarni, Lead-Content & Training

Reviewed By: Dr. Alap Christry M.D. AVP-Lab Operations & Scientific Business Head-Clinical Chemistry