24-Hour Free Kappa Light Chain Urine Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio
This test measures the ratio of free kappa light chains in your urine compared to creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism. It helps assess kidney function and detect abnormal protein levels that may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma or other light chain diseases.
["This test helps monitor kidney health and identify potential light chain-related disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 38177-2
- Short code
- Kappa LC Free 24h Ur-mRate
- Synonyms
- Kappa LC Free 24h Ur-mRate
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 20
- Ref high
- 400
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82670
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent urination, swelling, or unexplained weight changes. It could also be part of a routine check for kidney disease or a follow-up for conditions like multiple myeloma, where abnormal protein production is common.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll likely provide a urine sample in the morning, similar to a routine urine test. Drink plenty of water the day before to ensure a clear urine sample.
How the Test Works
Your urine is collected over 24 hours, and the test measures the amount of free kappa light chains relative to creatinine. This ratio helps determine if protein is being lost in your urine at a rate that might signal kidney issues or other disorders.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to standard ratios for healthy individuals. Elevated ratios may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, kidney disease, or other light chain disorders, while normal results suggest no significant abnormalities.
Reference range
Premenopausal: 20-400 pg/mL; Postmenopausal: <30 pg/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is particularly useful for diagnosing and monitoring conditions where abnormal light chain production occurs, such as multiple myeloma or light chain amyloidosis. It can also help track kidney function and response to treatment over time.
Short name
Free Kappa Light Chain Urine Ratio
Frequently asked questions
How often will I need this test?
What causes abnormal results?
Can I take medications before the test?
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