IMMUNOHISTOCHEMISTRY, KAPPA LIGHT CHAINS

What this test checks

Detects kappa immunoglobulin light chains in plasma cells and B-lymphocytes — assessed alongside lambda chains to determine light chain restriction (clonality) in plasma cell disorders and B-cell lymphomas.

Why do people get this test?

The kappa/lambda ratio in tissue plasma cells identifies clonal proliferation. An abnormal ratio confirms myeloma or lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma — essential for diagnosis and monitoring.

When you should consider this test

• When multiple myeloma, plasmacytoma, or lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma is suspected
• When assessing plasma cell clonality in tissue
• Paired with lambda light chain staining to determine kappa/lambda restriction

How to prepare

No preparation needed — performed on biopsy or bone marrow tissue.