Lambda light chain Test and its Function
The Lambda Light Chain Test measures the concentration of free lambda light chains in the blood—small protein components of antibodies produced by plasma cells. These chains play a vital role in immune defense, helping antibodies recognize and neutralize pathogens. Normally, lambda and kappa light chains exist in balanced proportions. However, disruptions in this balance can signal abnormal plasma cell activity, making this test essential for detecting disorders like multiple myeloma, monoclonal gammopathy, and amyloidosis.
Conditions that may require Lambda light chain Test
Doctors may recommend the Lambda Light Chain Test when symptoms suggest plasma cell disorders. These include persistent bone pain, unexplained fractures, chronic anemia, recurrent infections, kidney dysfunction, or fatigue. The test is particularly useful for diagnosing and monitoring conditions such as multiple myeloma, Waldenström macroglobulinemia, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), and AL amyloidosis. It helps track disease progression, assess treatment response, and detect early signs of relapse.
Lambda light chain Test Procedure
The Lambda light chain Test is a simple blood test that can be performed in a laboratory. Before the test, the patient may be asked to avoid certain medications that may affect the results. During the test, our healthcare professional will use a needle to draw blood from a vein in the patient’s arm. The blood sample will then be sent to our laboratory for analysis.
Interpreting Lambda light chain Test Results
Test results include the absolute levels of lambda and kappa light chains, along with their ratio. A normal ratio typically ranges from 0.26 to 1.65. Deviations may indicate plasma cell disorders: a high lambda level or skewed ratio could suggest monoclonal gammopathy, multiple myeloma, or amyloidosis. Mild abnormalities may also result from kidney dysfunction or inflammation. Interpretation should always be done by a medical professional, considering clinical symptoms, history, and other diagnostic tests.
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FAQs Around Lambda light chain Test
How much does Lambda light chain Test cost?
The Lambda light chain Test cost is Rs.600, although it is now available for Rs.585 because of the offer.