Beta-2-Microglobulin, Serum

Test Code

B2MCG

Alias/See Also

LAB8312

CPT Codes
<p>82232</p>

Preferred Specimen

Specimen Type: Serum

Collection Container/Type

Preferred: Serum gel

Acceptable: Red top

Submission Container/Tube: Plastic vial

Specimen Volume: 1 mL

Minimum Volume

0.5 mL

Transport Temperature

Room temperature

Specimen Stability

Room temperature: 5 days

Refrigerated: 7 days

Frozen: 30 days

Methodology

Immunoturbidimetric Assay

Setup Schedule

Setup: Mon-Sat; Report available: 1-3 days

Report Available

1-3 days

Reference Range

<18 Years	Not established
Adults	≤2.51 mg/L

Clinical Significance

Beta-2-microglobulin normally passes through the glomerulus into the proximal tubule where much of it is reabsorbed. Serum levels are therefore an index of glomerular function. When impaired, serum levels rise in inverse ratio to glomerular filtration rate. Increased amounts of beta-2-microglobulin are excreted in several renal disorders, e.g., Balkan nephropathy, heavy metal poisoning and renal tubular disease due to therapeutic agents. Serial levels of beta-2-microglobulin in serum and urine are used to evaluate transplant viability and anticipate rejection. Following a successful graft, serum levels decline toward normal. Increasing serum levels provide an early sign of rejection. Elevated levels are also noted in lymphproliferative disorders, neoplasms (malignant and benign), inflammatory disease, and autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sjögren's disease.

Performing Laboratory

Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute
14225 Newbrook Drive
Chantilly, VA 20153

Last Updated: February 17, 2023

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.