A test to measure the presence of Bence-Jones proteins (free immunoglobulin light chains) in urine. Normally, light chains (one component of antibodies ) are produced in excess of heavy chains (the other component of antibodies). Increases in free light chains (polyclonal) may occur with increased immunoglobulin synthesis or catabolism (breakdown of cells and tissues). These light chains do not exhibit the same characteristics of Bence-Jones proteins (monoclonal free-light chains). Immunofixation is the best test for detecting free monoclonal light chains.

Alternative Names

Immunoglobulin light chains - urine; Urine Bence-Jones protein