Description
Monoclonal free light chains of immunoglobulins, were first described in the urine of a patient with multiple myeloma. These monoclonal free light chains can cause disease due to amyloid and nonamyloid fibril deposition. There are two types of light chains, Kappa (κ) and Lambda (λ). The incidence of κ light chain gammopathy is usually higher than that of λ light chain. Multiple myeloma is usually a disease of the elderly with a median age of 64 years at diagnosis and is rare in individuals who are less than 40 years old. In multiple myeloma, a monoclonal (M) band is seen in the serum or urine of > 95% of patients. Polyclonal free light chains are normally produced and secreted by plasma cells and are found normally in serum and urine. See Also Urine Fractionation
Indications
Useful in the diagnosis and classification of light chain disease and multiple myeloma.
Sample Type, Quantity & Conditions
30 ml of 24 Hrs Urine Room Temperature
Special Precautions
Normal Range