This blood test measures the free light chains in the blood. High or low levels of these proteins may be a sign of multiple myeloma or other health conditions.

Jun 3, 2025 · Discover everything about light chain myeloma, including its symptoms, causes, and how it is diagnosed. Learn about the latest treatment options for managing this rare form of multiple myeloma.

Feb 9, 2022 · Multiple myeloma is a blood cancer that affects plasma cells. In light chain myeloma, cancerous plasma cells create a specific type of immunoglobulin known as light chains.

The immunoglobulin light chain is the small polypeptide subunit of an antibody (immunoglobulin). A typical antibody is composed of two immunoglobulin (Ig) heavy chains and two Ig light chains.

Light chains usually link up with other proteins called heavy chains. Together, they make immunoglobulins (antibodies) and help your immune system work properly.

What is a light chain? Light chains are small proteins produced by plasma cells. They may be found in a free form (as either monomers or dimers) or bound to heavy chains to make up an intact antibody. …

The free light chain ratio test measures specific proteins in the blood to help identify certain conditions. It assesses the levels of two types of “free” light chains and compares their amounts.

The light chains attach themselves to the heavy chains and are then called bound light chains. When you have more light chains than heavy chains, those extra light chains are called "free" because they …

Light chains are protein components of immunoglobulins, commonly known as antibodies, which help your immune system fight infections. Normally, these light chains are produced in balanced amounts …

May 31, 2022 · There are two types of light chain proteins: kappa and lambda. Light chain proteins are shorter and lighter in weight than heavy chain proteins.