ß2-microglobulin – what is it? When to test for low molecular weight protein?

ß2-microglobulin is a low molecular weight protein located on the surface of almost all cells – especially those belonging to the immune system: T and B lymphocytes and macrophages. It is a component of cell membranes; exists as a monomer or is part of a histocompatibility complex.

What is beta-2-microglobulin?

It is a protein consisting of small molecules and belongs to the HLA-1 antigenic system. Beta-2-microglobulin is present in all cells that contain the nucleus and in human body fluids. As a result of the breakdown of cells, beta-2-microglobulin is released (therefore it is possible to determine its low level in the blood). Testing of this protein is most often performed in cancer diagnostics (e.g. chronic lymphocytic leukemia or multiple myeloma).

Increased levels of beta-2-microglobulin are also observed in Hashimoto’s disease and Crohn’s disease. Another equally important application of this parameter is the diagnosis and differentiation of kidney diseases. In patients with kidney problems, beta-2-microglobulin is found in large amounts in their urine. Under normal conditions, beta-2-microglobulin is reabsorbed in the tubules and excreted in the urine in trace amounts or not at all.

When do we do the beta-2-microglobulin test?

The beta 2 microglobulin test is used in the diagnosis of nephrological diseases, immune disorders and neoplastic diseases. Additionally, the test is useful in monitoring the course of the following conditions:

  1. chronic lymphocytic leukemia,
  2. multiple myeloma,
  3. B-cell lymphoma,
  4. makroglobulinema Waldenstroma,
  5. lymphoblastic leukemia,
  6. patients exposed to mercury and cadmium.

Beta-2-microglobulin testing is also useful in differentiating glomerular damage from tubular damage. In addition, it allows you to quickly diagnose early rejection by patients of a transplanted kidney.

The course of the beta-2-microglobulin study

Test material: serum.

Preparation for the test: on an empty stomach (at least 8 hours).

The course of the study: one-time blood sampling from a vein in the arm (the most common place). Before the collection, the patient’s skin at the injection site will be thoroughly disinfected. If your doctor decides to test a urine sample (suspected kidney disease), take a special urine container with you to the laboratory. Urine should be passed after performing hygiene of the urethral opening.

Waiting time for the beta-2-microglobulin result: 1 Day.

Standard: 0,13-0,26 µmol/l (1,5-3,0 mg/l).

Comments: Elevated ß concentration2-microglobulin is also observed in the course of neoplastic diseases. However, the diagnostic value and the role of this protein in the course of proliferative diseases have not been determined so far.

For people who do not have a referral from a doctor, the beta 2 microglobulin test costs about PLN 75.

Beta-2-microglobulins – research results

In a healthy person, beta-2-microglobulin should not be detectable in the urine, although trace amounts are acceptable. In people with cancer, an increase in this protein indicates a poor prognosis for cure, while a decrease in concentration means that the patient has responded to treatment. For kidney patients, the detection of beta-2-microglobulin in the blood will mean that the glomeruli have been damaged, while protein in the urine suggests damage to the renal tubules.

Other conditions where beta-2-microglobulin increases:

  1. celiac disease,
  2. systemic lupus,
  3. Hashimoto,
  4. Crohn’s disease,
  5. Graves’ disease,
  6. AIDS,
  7. cytomegalia,
  8. infectious mononucleosis,
  9. hepatitis A, B and C.

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