Urine Free Light Chain (λ) Concentration
This test measures the amount of free lambda light chains found in your urine, which can help detect certain conditions affecting the immune system or kidneys.
["Free light chains in urine may signal underlying health concerns that require further evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12778-7
- Short code
- Lambda LC Free Ur-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Lambda LC Free Ur-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like kidney problems, unexplained protein in urine, or signs of multiple myeloma or other blood-related disorders. It helps identify abnormal protein fragments that may indicate disease activity.
What Does the Result Mean?
Results are interpreted by your doctor based on your medical history and symptoms. Elevated levels may suggest conditions like multiple myeloma, kidney disease, or other immune system disorders. Normal results do not rule out all possible causes.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A clean-catch urine sample is typically collected in the morning. You may be instructed to urinate into a sterile container after washing your hands and genitals. If a catheter is used, your provider will explain the process.
What to Expect During the Test
No special preparation is usually needed beyond collecting the urine sample. The test is often done as part of a routine urine analysis or specific diagnostic workup. Results are usually available within a few days.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Free light chains are small protein fragments produced when antibodies break down. High levels in urine can signal conditions like multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells), kidney disease, or other immune system disorders. Monitoring these levels helps guide treatment decisions and manage symptoms effectively.
Short name
Urine Free Lambda Light Chain
Frequently asked questions
What causes elevated free lambda light chains in urine?
How long does it take to get results?
Can lifestyle changes affect urine free light chain results?
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