B2-Microglobulin

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