IMMUNOHISTOCHEMISTRY, LAMBDA LIGHT CHAINS

What this test checks

Detects lambda immunoglobulin light chains in plasma cells and B-lymphocytes. Used to assess light chain restriction in plasma cell myeloma and B-cell lymphomas — an indicator of clonal (cancerous) proliferation.

Why do people get this test?

Normal plasma cells produce both kappa and lambda light chains in roughly equal numbers. When one type dominates overwhelmingly, this 'light chain restriction' confirms a clonal (cancerous) plasma cell or B-cell disorder.

When you should consider this test

• When multiple myeloma or lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma is suspected
• When assessing plasma cell clonality
• Paired with kappa light chain staining to assess kappa/lambda ratio

How to prepare

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