Health Library Explorer

Immunofixation by Electrophoresis (Urine)

Does this test have other names?

Immunofixation electrophoresis, IFE

What is this test?

This test separates and measures proteins in your urine. It looks for an abnormal protein called monoclonal protein, also called M-protein.

An M-protein is a type of abnormal immunoglobulin made by plasma cells. Plasma cells are a kind of white blood cell. Your body uses immunoglobulins to make antibodies that help attack invaders such as bacteria and viruses. If your body makes M-protein, it may mean that you have one of several types of cancer, such as multiple myeloma, or another serious health problem.

This test uses an electric current to push proteins in a urine sample through a special gel. This is electrophoresis. The lab treats the gel to keep only certain proteins. This is immunofixation. A stain makes different proteins show up as bands, or peaks.

Why do I need this test?

You may need this test if your healthcare provider thinks you have a health condition such as:

  • Multiple myeloma

  • Primary amyloidosis

  • Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that causes abnormal plasma cells to build up in bone marrow. As a result, many bones grow tumors. When this happens, the bone marrow can't do its normal job of making different blood cells. Symptoms of multiple myeloma include:

  • Pain in the bones

  • Unusual fractures

  • Unusual bleeding or bruising

  • Extreme tiredness (fatigue)

  • Shortness of breath

Primary amyloidosis causes a substance called amyloid to gather in clumps in your organs. Amyloid is made of fragments of antibody protein. When amyloid gathers in organs, such as the kidneys, lungs, heart, or brain, it can damage them. Some people may have both multiple myeloma and primary amyloidosis.

Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which is a kind of cancer. It's caused by high levels of monoclonal immunoglobulin M (IgM). Symptoms may include:

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Unusual bleeding or bruises

  • Weight loss

What other tests might I have along with this test?

You may need other tests to help show if you have a health problem. These tests may include:

  • Analysis of a sample of bone marrow


  • X-rays to check your bones

  • Urine test to check for unusual levels of protein

  • Complete blood count (CBC) that includes measuring the number of different cells in your blood

  • Measurement of levels of immunoglobulins in your blood


What do my test results mean?


How is this test done?


Does this test pose any risks?

This test poses no known risks.

What might affect my test results?

No other factors can affect your results.

How do I get ready for this test?


Online Medical Reviewer: Chad Haldeman-Englert MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Maryann Foley RN BSN
Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C
Date Last Reviewed: 11/1/2020
Powered by StayWell
About StayWell | StayWell Disclaimer