Paraprotein Unit Converter

A paraprotein (also called M-protein or monoclonal protein) is an abnormal immunoglobulin produced by a single clone of plasma cells. Unlike normal antibodies, which are diverse and made by many different cell clones in response to various threats, paraprotein consists of identical copies of one immunoglobulin molecule.

It appears as a narrow band or spike (called an M-spike) on serum protein electrophoresis. The most common types are IgG and IgA, though IgM, free light chains, and rarer forms can also occur.

A paraprotein is not normally present in blood. Its detection indicates that a single clone of plasma cells has expanded beyond normal limits, which may be benign or may signal an underlying blood disorder.

Produced by a clonal population of plasma cells, most commonly located in the bone marrow. Plasma cells are the final stage of B-lymphocyte development and normally produce diverse antibodies, but in monoclonal gammopathies a single clone expands and secretes identical copies of one immunoglobulin.