Urine protein electrophoresis test
What is Urine Protein Electrophoresis Test (UPE)
Urine Protein Electrophoresis Test (UPE) is a laboratory test used to detect and measure the total amount of protein in a sample of urine. This test is usually conducted to diagnose disorders that lead to protein in the urine, such as kidney disease, inflammation, or other disorders. Urine Protein Electrophoresis is used to separate components of urine sample into specific protein fractions. This test is very useful in detecting and measuring the amount of proteins such as albumin, globulin, Bence Jones protein, and other immunoglobulins in the urine.
Types of Urine Protein Electrophoresis
The two main types of Urine Protein Electrophoresis tests are index UPE and immunofixation UPE. Index UPE is used to quantify total amount of the different proteins in the urine sample. Immunofixation UPE is used to identify and measure the amount of specific protein in the urine such as albumin, globulin, Bence Jones protein, and other immunoglobulins.
Preparation for Urine Protein Electrophoresis
Preparation for Urine Protein Electrophoresis generally involves several steps. First, the patient must provide a sample of urine, which is tested for protein levels before the actual test. The sample is then centrifuged and examined under a microscope to determine the type and amount of protein present in the sample. Once the type and amount of protein is determined, this information is then used to create a profile for the patient.
Procedure of Urine Protein Electrophoresis
The first step in the procedure is to prep the sample for analysis. This includes centrifuging the sample to separate the proteins, then applying a charge to the proteins to separate them based on their molecular size. The proteins are then run through the UPE agarose gel and the results are recorded. Finally, the results are interpreted and the patient is given results.
Risks of Urine Protein Electrophoresis
The risks of Urine Protein Electrophoresis are minimal, but they do exist. This includes skin irritations caused from contact with the electrical current used in the test. Also, there is a risk for infection due to contamination of the sample or improper handling of samples.
Why Urine Protein Electrophoresis is Done?
Urine Protein Electrophoresis is done to diagnose certain diseases or conditions that lead to protein in the urine. These can include kidney disease, inflammation, and other disorders. It can also help diagnose and monitor existing conditions, as well as identify new health problems.
When Urine Protein Electrophoresis is Done?
Urine Protein Electrophoresis is usually done when a doctor suspects a patient has a condition that may be causing protein to leak into the urine. The test may be requested for people who are exhibiting symptoms that indicate a disorder, or for those who have a personal or family history of kidney or other diseases.
