What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're being monitored for a plasma cell disorder like multiple myeloma, or if a previous blood or urine test suggested abnormal protein production. It's also useful if you have unexplained kidney problems, bone pain, or fatigue that hasn't been explained by other causes. This test looks for excess free light chains in urine, which can be an early sign of certain blood cell disorders or kidney stress.

What's included in this test?

This test measures two types of free light chains in your urine along with the ratio between them. Looking at both the individual levels and the ratio helps distinguish a normal pattern from one that suggests a monoclonal, or single-source, protein overproduction that needs attention.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will appear in your account with the normal range clearly explained next to your kappa, lambda, and ratio values. If your levels fall outside the expected range, retesting or tracking the trend over time can help confirm whether it's a one-time finding or an ongoing pattern. A standard lab report is available to download directly from your account. If a result is significantly abnormal or you have symptoms like swelling, bone pain, or unusual fatigue, seek medical care right away.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. You'll get a notification as soon as your report is available in your account, so there's no need to call or follow up separately.

Who should consider this test?

This test is often used for people already diagnosed with a plasma cell disorder who need ongoing monitoring, as well as those with unexplained kidney issues, bone pain, or anemia. It's also considered when earlier lab work showed unusual protein patterns that need closer investigation. People with a family history of blood cell disorders sometimes use this test as part of a broader screening approach.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common signs include unexplained bone pain (especially in the back or ribs), persistent fatigue, frequent infections, or unexplained weight loss. Swelling in the legs or changes in urination can also point to kidney stress that this test can help investigate. If you've noticed foamy or bubbly urine along with these symptoms, it may be worth checking.

What is Bence-Jones protein and why does it matter?

Bence-Jones protein is the older name for free light chains that show up in urine, first identified over a century ago in people with certain blood cell disorders. Finding these proteins matters because they can be one of the earliest signals of a plasma cell condition, sometimes appearing before other symptoms develop. Catching this early allows for closer monitoring and faster action if treatment becomes necessary.

What does an abnormal kappa/lambda ratio mean?

A skewed ratio means one type of light chain is being produced in much greater amounts than the other, which usually points to a single abnormal cell line making too much of one protein. This pattern is often followed up with additional blood testing to get a fuller picture. It doesn't automatically mean a serious condition, but it's a signal worth tracking closely.

How often should I retest?

If you're being actively monitored for a known condition, retesting every few months is common to track whether levels are stable, rising, or falling. If this is a first-time abnormal finding, a repeat test within a few weeks to a couple of months can help confirm the result. Using the trends feature in your account makes it easy to see these changes over time.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

Start by comparing your new result to any past results in your trends view to see if there's a pattern. Simple next steps include staying well-hydrated, avoiding unnecessary strain on your kidneys, and scheduling a follow-up test to confirm the finding. If your levels are very high or you have symptoms like severe fatigue or swelling, seek medical care promptly.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Free Light Chain Urine Test - Myeloma Screening

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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