Serum protein electrophoresis

More than 100 serum proteins have been biochemically identified; relatively few have well-documented clinical significance. In an effort to discriminate between healthy and diseased individuals, investigators have studied many protein levels and patterns from birth throughout life. SPEP is a technique that profiles five plasma protein fractions. Certain patterns are frequently observed in disease states. The use of electrophoretic graphic data in the diagnosis of various diseases has increased markedly over the past two decades. Using this technique nurse practitioners add a new dimension to their diagnostic repertoire.