부산대학교 도서관

Monoclonal proteins are immunoglobulins secreted by identical but abnormal plasma cells that are clones of a parent cell. While routine screening in the absence of signs or symptoms of disease is not recommended, testing is indicated in the diagnostic work-up for multiple myeloma and other plasma cell disorders. When indicated, a serum protein electrophoresis with immunofixation and serum free light-chain assay should be performed to determine the type and quantity of monoclonal protein. Using a case-based approach, we highlight common misconceptions with monoclonal protein investigations, and suggest a practical framework for diagnostic interpretation.
Case 1 Patient 1 is a 67-year-old woman with unexplained normocytic anaemia on routine blood tests. Her white blood cell (WBC) count is 9 x [10.sup.9]/L (normal range 4.5-11 x [...]