Immunoglobulins (antibodies) consist of two main components: heavy chains and light chains.
The light chains are further categorized into two types: Kappa and Lambda. These chains play a vital role in immune responses, as they bind to antigens, helping the immune system fight infections. While the majority of light chains are bound to heavy chains to form intact immunoglobulins, a small percentage are released freely into the bloodstream—these are known as free light chains.
In healthy individuals, Kappa and Lambda free light chains are present in a balanced ratio, which typically remains constant. However, various plasma cell disorders, like multiple myeloma, light chain amyloidosis, and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), can disturb this balance by producing excessive quantities of one type of light chain.
The FLC Kappa & Lambda test is essential in diagnosing and monitoring conditions that involve abnormal production of free light chains, particularly diseases affecting plasma cells. These include:
1] Multiple Myeloma – A type of cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow, often leading to an overproduction of Kappa or Lambda free light chains.
2] Light Chain Amyloidosis (AL Amyloidosis) – A disease characterized by the deposition of abnormal light chains in tissues and organs.
3] MGUS (Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance) – A condition that can sometimes precede multiple myeloma, marked by the presence of monoclonal proteins in the blood.
4] Waldenström’s Macroglobulinemia – A rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma involving abnormal plasma cells.
The Kappa/Lambda ratio is of great diagnostic value because an imbalanced ratio can indicate the presence of one of these diseases. For instance, an elevated Kappa/Lambda ratio might indicate a Kappa light chain-related disorder, while a decreased ratio could point to a Lambda light chain-associated disease.
The results of the Free Light Chain Kappa & Lambda test include:
1] Kappa Light Chain Levels: The normal range for Kappa free light chains typically falls between 3.3 to 19.4 mg/L.
2] Lambda Light Chain Levels: The normal range for Lambda free light chains usually falls between 5.7 to 26.3 mg/L.
3] Kappa/Lambda Ratio: A normal Kappa/Lambda ratio is usually between 0.26 and 1.65.
At Diagnopein, we offer comprehensive, accurate, and timely diagnostic services, including the Free Light Chain Kappa & Lambda test pune. With our NABL-accredited labs, cutting-edge technology, and skilled technicians, you can be assured of reliable results every time. Get your results quickly, especially when time is crucial in detecting severe infections.
Competitive pricing without compromising on quality. Our team of experienced professionals ensures the test is conducted smoothly with minimal discomfort. We provide not just Free Light Chain Kappa & Lambda test results but insights into your health condition, helping you and your doctor make informed decisions about treatment. For more information call us at +91 9204 108108.
Yes, kidney disease can impact free light chain levels in the blood, as the kidneys help filter out excess proteins. Patients with kidney problems may show altered levels of free light chains, which could lead to false-positive results for plasma cell disorders.
The risks associated with the FLC test are minimal and primarily related to blood sample collection. These may include minor pain, bruising, or infection at the needle site, but such side effects are rare.
No special preparation is required for this test. However, it is important to inform your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are taking, as certain medications might affect the test results.
The Free Light Chain test is not a general screening tool for cancer but is specifically used to diagnose and monitor plasma cell cancers, such as multiple myeloma. It is not used for screening other types of cancers.
