Serum or Plasma Free Light Chain Immunoglobulin (Free Kappa and Lambda Light Chains) Profile
This test measures the free light chains (kappa and lambda) found in your blood, which are small protein fragments produced by immune cells. These fragments can help identify conditions affecting your immune system or kidney function.
["Assessing immune or kidney health through free light chain levels in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 33105-8
- Short code
- GA from GSL.Hansmann 1979
- Synonyms
- GA from GSL.Hansmann 1979
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 1.5
- Ref high
- 9
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- us-estimated-from-gsl-hansmann
- CPT
- 83002
- 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 Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test to investigate symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or unexplained kidney problems. It’s also used to monitor conditions such as multiple myeloma, lymphoma, or other immune-related diseases. Free light chains can sometimes appear in higher amounts when your kidneys aren’t filtering them properly.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein for a blood draw. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.
What the Results Mean
Results show the concentration of free kappa and lambda light chains. Abnormal levels may signal conditions like multiple myeloma, kidney disease, or other immune disorders. Your provider will interpret these results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Common Conditions Linked to This Test
High levels of free light chains are often linked to plasma cell disorders (e.g., multiple myeloma) or kidney problems. Low levels may be less concerning but can still warrant further evaluation if symptoms persist.
Reference range
Follicular: 1.5-9.0 mIU/mLN/A
For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Free Light Chains
Frequently asked questions
What causes free light chains to be tested?
How long does it take to get results?
Can diet or medications affect free 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