Gamma globulin %
What it measures, and what changes the number.
Gamma globulin % is the share of total serum protein found in the gamma band of a serum protein electrophoresis. The test separates blood proteins by electric charge into bands, and the gamma band consists mostly of immunoglobulins, the antibodies made by plasma cells.
It is read together with the absolute Gamma globulin value, which is this share multiplied by Total protein, and alongside the other electrophoresis bands such as Albumin % and the alpha and beta globulin fractions. The shape of the gamma band is often reviewed along with immunoglobulin levels like IgG, IgA and IgM.
The test is normally run on serum. If plasma is used, fibrinogen can appear as an extra band near the beta and gamma region and distort the fractions. The method used (gel or capillary electrophoresis) can shift the numbers slightly. Labs may print it as Gamma globulinas %.
Often read alongside: Gamma globulin, Total protein, Albumin %, Beta-2 globulin %, IgG