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Serum or plasma mass concentration of lambda heavy chain (free light chain)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of free lambda heavy chain proteins in your blood. These proteins are part of antibodies and can be elevated in certain blood disorders.

Quick summary

["Elevated levels may signal underlying immune system conditions needing further medical evaluation."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
27394-6
Short code
Lambda LC Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
Lambda LC Ur-mCnc
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 This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, or unexplained fevers, or if you have a history of blood disorders such as multiple myeloma or lymphoma. It may also be used to monitor certain cancers or autoimmune diseases.

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 taking blood from your finger, it may sting slightly. If you’re having a plasma draw, you might feel a brief pinch.

What the Test Results Mean

Results are compared to what’s typically found in healthy individuals. High levels of free lambda chains can indicate conditions like multiple myeloma or other cancers affecting antibody production. Low levels are less commonly associated with this test.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps diagnose or monitor conditions like multiple myeloma, lymphoma, or other plasma cell dyscrasias. It can also be part of routine cancer screening in certain high-risk patients.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Free lambda light chain (serum/plasma)

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated free lambda light chains?
Elevated levels may be due to conditions like multiple myeloma, where abnormal plasma cells produce too many lambda chains. Other rare causes include certain lymphomas or other cancers affecting antibody production.
What should I do if my test results are abnormal?
If your results are elevated, your healthcare provider will likely order additional tests or evaluations to determine the cause. They may recommend further imaging, bone marrow tests, or other blood tests to get a full picture of your health.
Can lifestyle changes affect this test?
While diet and exercise can impact overall health, they typically do not directly affect free lambda light chain levels. However, managing chronic conditions like diabetes or kidney disease can indirectly influence blood test results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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