Comparison of SPE, IFE, and FLC in Monitoring Patients with Multiple Myeloma After Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation.

ABSTRACT

Conventionally, serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) and serum immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE) are used as primary methods to diagnose and monitor multiple myeloma (MM). Recently, serum-free light chain (FLC) assay has been incorporated into hematological screening programs for myeloma. The purpose of this study is to compare the performance of the three methods in monitoring MM patients after autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). SPE, serum IFE and serum FLC assay were performed on 38 MM patients who underwent ASCT. In total, four patients had unexpected protein bands (UPBs) and 13 patients had relapsed after ASCT. Our results indicate that IFE is more sensitive than SPE and FLC assay in detection of UPBs and relapse. The results of IFE may provide useful information in advance of patient relapse.