Serum or Plasma Free Light Chain Kappa (Immunoassay)
This test measures the amount of free kappa light chains in your blood, which are small protein fragments produced by white blood cells. These fragments can help diagnose conditions affecting the immune system or bone marrow.
["Free kappa light chains may indicate certain blood disorders or immune-related conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 47436-1
- Short code
- EBV EA IgG Titr Fld
- Synonyms
- EBV EA IgG Titr Fld
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 8
- Ref high
- 61
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82977
- SNOMED
- 3110003
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, or unexplained infections, or if they suspect conditions such as multiple myeloma, lymphoma, or other blood cancers. It may also be used to monitor treatment progress or check for abnormalities in your immune system.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re taking blood from a vein in your arm, you might feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. If you’re concerned about needles, let your healthcare provider know.
What the Test Results Mean
High levels of free kappa light chains can suggest conditions like multiple myeloma or other cancers affecting plasma cells. Low levels may not indicate a problem but could be part of a broader evaluation. Your results will be compared to your healthcare provider’s expectations based on your medical history and symptoms.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions like multiple myeloma, lymphoma, or other hematologic malignancies. It can also help track how well treatments are working or check for hidden signs of immune system disorders.
Reference range
Adult males: 8-61 U/L; Adult females: 5-36 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Free Kappa Light Chain
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal free kappa light chain levels?
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect free kappa light chain levels?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy