return to B index  

return to index page

Test Directory -  b2-Microglobulin

Synonyms

Clinical Indications

High cell turnover in myeloma results in raised serum concentrations of b2-microglobulin (b2M) and renal dysfunction will result in serum retention contributing to higher levels. b2M is the single most important prognostic indicator in the management of myelomatosis and reflects tumour mass, growth rate and renal function. It is particularly useful as a tumour marker in Bence-Jones myeloma where a serum paraprotein is absent.

Request Form

Combined Pathology Blood form (Yellow/Black)

Availability

Analysed by referral laboratory if specific criteria met.

Specific Criteria

Monitoring and management of myeloma. Usually requested by Consultant Haematologists.

Turnaround Time

1 week

Specimen

Serum

Volume

2 ml

Container

Yellow top (SST) tube

Lab. Handling

Aliquot and store at 4C

Causes for Rejection

Not meeting specific criteria for analysis.

Reference Range

Adult reference range: 1.2 - 2.4 mg/L
Levels below 4.0 mg/L at presentation reflect best prognosis, whereas levels above 20.0 mg/L reflect worst prognosis.

 

  


Last edited 07/08/08