Beta 2 microglobulin concentration
Immunology and Allergy Overview / Directory
Purpose of the test
β2-Microglobulin is an 11 KDa protein found on the surface of all nucleated human cells as a component polypeptide chain of the HLA antigen complex. It has been shown that this globular protein is composed of approximately 100 amino acids, and contains no carbohydrate. It is found in most body fluids and as such can be measured in serum, CSF, saliva, joint fluids and urine. It is excreted via the renal glomerulus, the majority being reabsorbed in the proximal tubules. It exists in the serum as a stable monomer with no significant diurnal variation.
The major use of this protein measurement is in the monitoring of multiple myeloma. High cell turnover in myeloma results in raised serum concentrations, and renal dysfunction will result in serum retention contributing further to raised concentrations. Measurement of β2-Microglobulin indirectly reflects tumour mass, growth rate and renal function.
Reference Range
Foetal serum 2.3-4.7 mg/L;
Serum 1.2-2.4 mg/L;
CSF 0.1-2.8 mg/L;
Urine <0.30 mg/L
Sample Requirements
Serum is preferred, as is measurement on the day of venepuncture. EDTA and heparin plasmas are acceptable. Samples must show no signs of deterioration and lipaemic samples must be avoided.
Storage and Transport
Samples may be stored at 4°C prior to analysis
Turnaround Time
5 working days
Time Limit for Extra Tests
Five days
Factors affecting results or interpretation
All tests are compromised by prolonged transit times. For this reason, date of bleed and date of postage must be provided with each request.
Price
Price available on application - please contact adrianturner1@nhs.net. Discounts could be available for significant workloads.
Contacts
John Cazabon or Rosemary Ebling, Lead Biomedical Scientists
T 020 3299 1559
