What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're being monitored for a plasma cell condition like multiple myeloma, or if you have unexplained bone pain, fatigue, kidney problems, or anemia that hasn't been explained by other causes. It measures abnormal proteins in your urine that can show up when certain plasma cells are producing too much of one type of protein. It's often used for ongoing monitoring rather than as a first-time screening test.

What's included in this test?

This test measures two specific proteins called free light chains, along with the ratio between them, in a urine sample. Looking at both the individual chain levels and their ratio helps show whether one type is being overproduced, which is a more meaningful pattern than looking at either value alone.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with the normal range clearly explained next to your value, so you can see exactly where you fall. If your levels are outside the expected range, next steps usually involve retesting to confirm the pattern and watching for related symptoms like bone pain, unusual tiredness, or changes in kidney function. If a result is significantly abnormal, it's a good idea to seek medical care promptly. You can download the full lab report anytime and use the trends feature to track your levels over multiple tests.

How can I naturally support kidney and immune health?

Staying well hydrated helps your kidneys filter waste more effectively, which matters since these light chains are cleared through the kidneys. Eating a balanced diet with moderate protein, limiting excess salt, and avoiding unnecessary NSAIDs can also help protect kidney function. Regular movement and good sleep support overall immune system balance, though they won't change an underlying plasma cell condition on their own.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. Once ready, you'll be able to view them directly in your account, and you'll also be able to download a copy of the full report at any time.

Who should consider this test?

People already diagnosed with or being monitored for a plasma cell disorder such as multiple myeloma are the main group who use this test regularly. It's also useful for those with unexplained kidney issues, bone pain, or anemia where a doctor previously raised concern about abnormal protein production. This is generally not a general wellness screening test for the average healthy person.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms linked to abnormal light chain production include persistent bone pain (especially in the back or ribs), unusual fatigue, unexplained weight loss, frequent infections, and swelling from kidney changes. Some people also notice increased thirst or foamy urine, which can point to kidney involvement. These symptoms alone don't confirm anything, but they're often the reason this specific test gets ordered.

What does a high kappa/lambda ratio mean?

A skewed ratio means one type of light chain is being produced in much larger amounts than the other, which can suggest a group of plasma cells is growing abnormally and making too much of one protein. This pattern is seen in conditions like light chain myeloma and related plasma cell disorders. A single abnormal ratio isn't a diagnosis by itself — it usually prompts retesting and additional monitoring.

What causes an abnormal free light chain result?

The most common cause is a plasma cell disorder, where certain immune cells multiply and produce excess amounts of one light chain type. Kidney function also affects these results, since light chains are normally filtered and cleared by the kidneys, so reduced kidney function can raise levels even without a plasma cell problem. Some kidney diseases and immune conditions unrelated to cancer can also cause mild abnormalities.

How often should I retest?

If you're actively being monitored for a known plasma cell condition, retesting every few months is common to track whether levels are stable, improving, or rising. If this is a first abnormal result without a prior diagnosis, a repeat test is usually done relatively soon to confirm the finding. The right retesting schedule really depends on your specific situation and prior results.

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 Chains Urine Test - Myeloma Monitoring

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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