From paper electrophoresis to computer-supported interpretation of capillary electrophoresis--clinical plasma protein analysis in Malmo, Sweden.

摘要

Protein analyses have been used in Malmo as a routine clinical diagnostic tool since 1953. Most serum samples are submitted for "protein profiles" including capillary zone electrophoresis and rate immune nephelometric quantification of nine proteins (five in urines), although analysis of single proteins may be requested. Standardization between laboratories in our region has been greatly improved by automation, CRM 470 calibration and external quality assurance. We are further extending standardization by developing computer supported interpretations using a program with improved user interface and graphical representation of electrophoretic curves superimposed upon a shaded reference interval. Programming is underway to provide complete automatic interpretation of these curves. Together, capillary electrophoresis (with access to mathematical analysis) and immunochemical quantifications allow a highly automated process accessible to further digital analysis and automated interpretation. Rapid, cost-effective and standardized analysis of serum protein profiles should improve the diagnostic evaluation of many categories of patients.