Beta-2-microglobulin (β2M)
| Category | Biochemistry >> Proteins |
|---|---|
| Test background |
β2M is a component of the MHC class I molecule that is responsible for mediating antigen presentation to cytotoxic T cells and is ubiquitous to all cell types (with the exception of erythrocytes). Up-regulation of β2M is observed in haematological malignancy (principally MM) and may facilitate prognostic information as a function of deterioration in glomerular function. |
| Clinical Indications |
Monitoring of established haematological malignancy |
| Reference range | 1.2-2.4 mg/L |
| Sample & container required | SST (gold top) |
| Sample volume | 0.5 mL |
| Transport storage | Stable at 2-8°C for 72 hours. Please freeze pending dispatch for analysis. Sample can be sent by first class post. |
| Turnaround time | 1 week |
| Notes | Grossly haemolysed samples are unsuitable for this assay. |