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Test ID: PEL    
Electrophoresis, Protein, Serum

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Method Description Describes how the test is performed and provides a method-specific reference

Serum proteins are separated in an electric field according to their size, shape, and electric charge. The separation is performed on agarose gels. The proteins are visualized by staining with acid blue and the intensity of staining is quantitated by densitometry (Helena Quick Scan 2000). Multiplying by the serum total protein converts the percentage of protein in each fraction into serum concentration. (Instruction manual: Helena SPIFE 3000; package insert: Helena SPIFE SPE Vis Gel, 2001; Kyle RA, Katzmann JA, Lust JA, Dispenzieri A: Clinical indications and applications of electrophoresis and immunofixation. In Manual of Clinical Laboratory Immunology. 6th edition. Edited by NR Rose, et al: Washington, DC, ASM Press, 2002 pp 71-91)

Day(s) and Time(s) Test Performed Outlines the days and times the test is performed. This field reflects the day and time the sample must be in the testing laboratory to begin the testing process and includes any specimen preparation and processing time required before the test is performed. Some tests are listed as continuously performed, which means assays are performed several times during the day.

Monday through Saturday; Continuously until 2 p.m.

Analytic Time Defines the amount of time it takes the laboratory to setup and perform the test. This is defined in number of days. The shortest interval of time expressed is "same day/1 day," which means the results may be available the same day that the sample is received in the testing laboratory. One day means results are available 1 day after the sample is received in the laboratory.

1 day

Maximum Laboratory Time Defines the maximum time from specimen receipt at Mayo Medical Laboratories until the release of the test result

2 days

Specimen Retention Time Outlines the length of time after testing that a specimen is kept in the laboratory before it is discarded

7 days

Performing Laboratory Location The location of the laboratory that performs the test

Rochester