Serum or Plasma Free Light Chain Immunoassay (Quantitative)
This test measures the free light chains (kappa and lambda) produced by plasma cells, which can help diagnose conditions like multiple myeloma or other monoclonal gammopathies.
["Free light chains may indicate abnormal protein production in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 58755-0
- Short code
- VZV IgG CSF IA-aCnc
- Synonyms
- VZV IgG CSF IA-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- CPT
- 82784
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained fatigue, frequent infections, or unexplained kidney problems. It’s also used to monitor conditions like multiple myeloma or other blood disorders that affect protein production in your bones.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood draw, and the sample will be sent to a lab for analysis. If you’re taking blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.
What the Test Results Mean
Abnormal levels of free light chains can signal conditions like multiple myeloma, where abnormal plasma cells produce too many light chains. Elevated levels may also be seen in other diseases affecting the bone marrow or kidneys.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test helps diagnose or monitor multiple myeloma, plasma cell leukemia, and other disorders where abnormal proteins accumulate in the blood.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Free light chains are small protein fragments produced by plasma cells. When these cells become cancerous (as in multiple myeloma), they can overproduce light chains, which may appear in high amounts in the blood or urine. Detecting these light chains helps diagnose or track the progression of these conditions.
Short name
Free Light Chains (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal free light chain levels?
Will I need follow-up tests if my results are abnormal?
Can diet or medications affect 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