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Ratio of Kappa-to-Lambda Light Chains in the Serum

Description

Immunoglobulins are composed of heavy and light chains. There are 2 kinds of light chains, called Kappa and Lambda. Normally kappa light chains are slightly more prevalent than lambda light chains. In reactive states and with monoclonal gammopathies, the relative amounts of these light chains are altered.


 

Specimen and Testing: Serum sample tested for amount of kappa and lambda light chains.

 

kappa-to-lambda light chain ratio =

= (kappa light chain in mg/dL) / (lambda light chain in mg/dL)

 

Interpretation:

• normal light chain ratio ranges from 3:2 to 2:1

• with excess kappa light chain production, the ratio is > 2:1

• with excess lambda light chain production, the ratio is < 3:2

 


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Specialty

ICD-10