Free kappa light chain (serum/plasma)
This test measures the amount of free kappa light chains, a type of protein fragment produced by plasma cells in your immune system. These fragments can be detected in your blood.
["Free kappa light chains help assess your immune system and detect certain conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 88301-7
- Short code
- Kappa LC Free 24h Ur Ql IFE
- Synonyms
- Kappa LC Free 24h Ur Ql IFE
- 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
- Method
- immunofixation
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for abnormal production of light chains, which can occur in conditions like multiple myeloma, lymphoma, or other plasma cell disorders. It may also be used to monitor these conditions or evaluate symptoms such as fatigue, bone pain, or kidney issues.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.
What the Test Results Mean
High levels of free kappa light chains may suggest a plasma cell disorder or other immune-related conditions. Low levels are less commonly significant but could be part of a broader evaluation. Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your medical history and other tests.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used to diagnose or monitor multiple myeloma, Waldenström macroglobulinemia, or other monoclonal gammopathies. It may also help evaluate kidney function indirectly, as abnormal light chains can affect kidney health.
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.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Free Kappa Light Chain
Frequently asked questions
How often will I need this test?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
What are the risks or side effects of this 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