Serum or Plasma Free Light Chain Immunoglobulin Quantification (Quantitative Free Light Chains)
This test measures the levels of free light chains, which are small protein fragments produced when antibodies break down. It helps assess conditions affecting antibody production or immune system function.
["Free light chains can signal underlying immune disorders or kidney issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 58909-3
- Short code
- 11DC 20M p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- 11DC 20M p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- hormone
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test to investigate symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or unexplained kidney problems. It’s also used to monitor conditions like multiple myeloma, lymphoma, or other immune-related diseases where antibody levels are abnormal.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, either serum (blood processed without clotting) or plasma (blood with clotting factors removed). The test is typically done in a lab from a small blood draw.
What the Results Mean
Results show the concentration of free light chains in your blood. Elevated levels may indicate conditions like multiple myeloma, where abnormal antibody production occurs, or kidney disease affecting protein filtering.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test helps diagnose or track conditions like multiple myeloma, Waldenström macroglobulinemia, or other monoclonal gammopathies. It may also be used in kidney disease evaluation if protein abnormalities are suspected.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Free light chains are fragments of heavy and light chains of immunoglobulins (antibodies). When antibodies break down, these light chains can accumulate in the blood or kidneys. Elevated levels often point to monoclonal gammopathies (e.g., multiple myeloma) or kidney dysfunction, guiding treatment decisions or disease management.
Short name
Free Light Chains
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal free light chain levels?
How often should I get this test?
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