Variation in reporting of fractions in serum protein electrophoresis

Serum protein electrophoresis (EPG) is commonly requested to aid diagnosis of disorders associated with alterations gamma globulins. In 2022, the RCPAQAP introduced reporting serum fractions, albumin, alpha-1, alpha-2, beta, beta-1, beta-2, and gamma, in paraproteins program. A high variation results for certain fractions was noted. We sought review this heterogeneity. Methods: The qualitative (low, normal or elevated) submitted by participating laboratories were compared reviewed using inhouse software. Results samples containing monoclonal bands further assessed given their clinical significance. Results: Qualitative interpretations (on same samples) varied across all fractions. widest found sourced from consenting donors presenting gammopathies e.g., one sample Survey 6, 26 low 6 normal, 27 interpretations. Beta 2 showed similar differences. Discussion: an important component patient management. Variation fraction consistent other studies on samples. While detected different there no evidence a band being missed three.