Free Light Chains
Reviewed
Measures the level of free light chains in the blood, used to diagnose or monitor plasma cell disorders such as multiple myeloma and amyloidosis.
Preparation and collection
No special preparation needed.
Understanding this test
Use the reference interval and units printed by the laboratory that performed the test. A result outside that interval is not a diagnosis by itself, and a result inside it does not rule out every condition. Your symptoms, history, medicines, timing, and related tests can change what the result means.
- Elevated free light chains can occur due to kidney conditions and not necessarily plasma cell disorder
- Results must be interpreted along with other tests and medical history
- Abnormal results do not confirm a specific diagnosis without further evaluation
What to do next
Your healthcare provider will consider your symptoms, medical history, and may order additional tests such as immunofixation blood test or other tests to confirm or rule out a diagnosis.