What does serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) primarily diagnose?

Serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) is a laboratory technique that separates proteins in serum based on their size and charge. This method is primarily utilized to diagnose and monitor various disorders related to protein abnormalities, particularly those involving the immune system.

When interpreting the results of SPEP, clinicians can identify specific types of proteins, such as albumin and globulins, and evaluate their relative concentrations. This is crucial for diagnosing conditions such as multiple myeloma, chronic inflammatory diseases, liver disease, and disorders related to immune function. For instance, an increased concentration of certain globulins can suggest conditions like monoclonal gammopathy or inflammatory states.

While thyroid disorders, cardiovascular health, coagulation status, and electrolyte balance are vital aspects of health that can be assessed through various laboratory tests, these areas are not primarily diagnosed through serum protein electrophoresis. Thus, the primary application of SPEP in the clinical setting clearly aligns with diagnosing and monitoring disorders related to serum proteins, such as those affecting the immune system, confirming that choice related to thyroid disorders is not accurate in this context.