Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
All Resources Treatments A-Z Personal Assistant Help Center Crisis
Powered By
Real members of MyMyelomaTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Immunoglobulins, is not one of the basic blood tests?

A MyMyelomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Hollis AK

I used to be able to check my immunoglobulins and now I don't see them in my regular blood panels. Is it a specialized test that has to be ordered by the oncologist and only when needed? I'm looking for immunity numbers there-in. I guess I should ask my oncologist if he can include them. This is my third oncologist and maybe he doesn't think they are necessary.

January 23
 · 
Reactions

Answer Summary

Members clarified that immunoglobulins are not part of routine blood work but require specialized orders, typically included in a myeloma... Read more

Members clarified that immunoglobulins are not part of routine blood work but require specialized orders, typically included in a myeloma panel alongside tests like SPEP, immunofixation, and free light chains. Several members shared practical experiences, including one who receives weekly Hyzentra infusions due to permanently suppressed IgM and IgA levels, another who checks monthly despite being stable to catch changes early, and others who noted that results can be delayed or require specific requests from new practitioners. A recurring theme was the importance of advocating with your care team to ensure these tests are ordered regularly, understanding that low immunoglobulin levels may better explain infection risk than white blood cell counts alone.

A MyMyelomaTeam Member

My doctors just order what they call a myeloma panel
Core Components of a Myeloma Panel Blood Tests (Serum Studies):Serum Protein Electrophoresis (SPEP) with Immunofixation (IFE): Identifies and types the monoclonal (M) protein.Serum-Free Light Chain (sFLC) Assay: Measures kappa and lambda light chains to detect light chain myeloma.Quantitative Immunoglobulins: Measures levels of IgA, IgG, IgM, IgD, and IgE.Complete Blood Count (CBC): Checks for anemia (low red blood cells) or other cytopenias.Chemistry Panel: Measures calcium (often elevated), albumin, and creatinine (to assess kidney function).Beta-2 Microglobulin & LDH: Prognostic markers for disease burden and progression.Urine Tests:24-Hour Urine Protein Electrophoresis (UPEP) & IFE: Detects Bence-Jones protein (light chains) in the urine.

January 23
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Good point. My monthly blood draw consists of eight different tests, the results do not all come in at the same time. Several days before the entire results are posted.

January 27
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

It takes more time to see immunoglobulins check again in 4 days.

January 26
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Good evening, Nick!
My blood tests and oncology appt. is every 3 months. I will ask if my immunoglobulin can be included..every 3 months...since my clonoseq was not approved 😬

January 24 (edited)
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Donna; I'll check my Electrophoresis.....to see if the " IFE" is included....Thanks🌺
Yes it is included....and no abnormal protein pattern.....as usual. However the immunoglobulins are not included. Funny, but I thought they used to be there. Could a change in practitioner make a difference?

January 26 (edited)

Related Questions

View All

If SMM why state myeloma parameters followed?

A MyMyelomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Foothills of NC
October 14, 2022

3 Layers of COVID-19 Protection: New Vaccines, Prevention Drug, and Tests
Watch on Demand: Managing and Treating Leukemia and Other Blood Cancers
The Importance of Trusting Yourself