Also known as: BMG
β2-microglobulin is an 11 KDa protein found on the surface of all nucleated human cells as a component polypeptide chain of the HLA Class I antigen complex. 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 and is used to monitor B cell malignancy. High cell turnover in myeloma results in raised serum concentrations, and renal dysfunction will result in serum retention, further compounding this rise. Measurement of β2-Microglobulin indirectly reflects tumour mass, growth rate and renal function.
Specimen requirements
Serum 1ml
Cost
Price on application
Laboratory turnaround time
3 days
Laboratory method
Turbidimetry
Reference range/units
<3.0mg/L
Associated tests
Not applicable
Sample stability
2 months at 2-8ºC
Shipping and storage
UK and Ireland
Ambient temperature and first class post. Hays DX users please enquire via email below.
International
Ambient temperature if courier will deliver within 72 hours otherwise consider refrigerated transport. Freezing is not a requirement.
Ensure delivery Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:30.
Further information and contact details
For further information, email immunologylab.enquiries@ouh.nhs.uk
