Beta-2-Microglobulin Serum Test
Short Name: B2M Serum Test
Also known as: B2M Serum Test, Beta-2 Microglobulin Blood Test, B2M Test, β2-Microglobulin Serum Test
Beta-2-Microglobulin Serum Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹1,521. Uses CLIA (Chemiluminescent Immunoassay) on Serum samples. Results in Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours and can be accessed via the online portal, email, or WhatsApp.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Pasupathy Arumugam
Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of the Beta-2-Microglobulin Serum Test is to measure the concentration of B2M protein in the blood. This test helps physicians assess disease burden, determine prognosis, stage certain cancers (especially multiple myeloma), monitor treatment response, detect disease relapse, and evaluate kidney function. It serves as an important biomarker in oncology, haematology, and nephrology practice.
- Test Code
- 195
- CPT Code
- 82232
- ICD Code
- C90.0
- Price
- ₹1,521
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours and can be accessed via the online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
- Fasting Required
- Yes (8 hours)
- Method
- CLIA (Chemiluminescent Immunoassay)
Sample Collection
Overnight fasting (8–12 hours) is preferred before sample collection. Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and any existing medical conditions, particularly kidney disease or immune disorders.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample (approximately 2 mL) from a vein in your arm using standard venipuncture technique. The procedure typically takes less than five minutes.
Report Delivery
Apply gentle pressure to the puncture site with cotton or a bandage to stop any minor bleeding. You may resume normal activities and your regular diet after the blood draw. Stay hydrated.
Timeline: Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours and can be accessed via the online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Beta-2-Microglobulin Serum Test is to measure the concentration of B2M protein in the blood. This test helps physicians assess disease burden, determine prognosis, stage certain cancers (especially multiple myeloma), monitor treatment response, detect disease relapse, and evaluate kidney function. It serves as an important biomarker in oncology, haematology, and nephrology practice.
How to Prepare
- Overnight fasting (8–12 hours) is preferred
- Avoid hemolysis during sample collection
- Collect 2 mL (1 mL min.) serum from 1 SST
- Ship refrigerated or frozen
- Do not consume alcohol 24 hours before the test
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Pasupathy Arumugam — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521
"Beta-2 microglobulin is a critical prognostic marker in multiple myeloma and is incorporated into the International Staging System (ISS) for staging the disease. Elevated serum B2M levels correlate with tumour burden and renal impairment. Serial monitoring of B2M helps oncologists assess treatment response and detect disease relapse early. Patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma, lymphoma, or chronic lymphocytic leukemia should discuss B2M testing with their oncologist as part of baseline and follow-up workup."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed sample
- Insufficient sample volume (less than 1 mL)
- Sample collected in incorrect tube type
- Sample received at room temperature after more than 24 hours
- Unlabelled or mislabelled specimen
Understanding Your Results
Normal range. B2M levels within this range are generally considered normal for adults. No immediate clinical concern indicated by this parameter alone.
Status: Normal
Range: 0.8 – 2.2 mg/L
Mildly elevated. May be seen in early-stage malignancies, chronic kidney disease, HIV infection, or inflammatory conditions. Clinical correlation and further testing recommended.
Status: Mildly Elevated
Range: 2.3 – 4.0 mg/L
Moderately elevated. Often associated with intermediate-stage multiple myeloma, active lymphoma, or significant renal impairment. Consultation with a specialist is advised.
Status: Moderately Elevated
Range: 4.1 – 10.0 mg/L
Significantly elevated. Strongly associated with advanced multiple myeloma (ISS Stage III), high tumour burden in lymphoproliferative disorders, or severe renal failure. Urgent specialist evaluation is required.
Status: Significantly Elevated
Range: > 10.0 mg/L
Consult your doctor if your Beta-2-Microglobulin levels are elevated above the normal reference range, if you have unexplained bone pain, fatigue, frequent infections, weight loss, or swollen lymph nodes, or if you are being monitored for a known haematological malignancy or kidney disorder.
Limitations
- ⚠B2M is a non-specific marker and elevated levels do not confirm a specific diagnosis on their own
- ⚠Results must be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other laboratory tests
- ⚠B2M levels are affected by renal function and may be elevated solely due to kidney disease
- ⚠This test alone cannot differentiate between various types of haematological malignancies
- ⚠Reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories and methods
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising or discomfort at the blood draw site
- ●Slight risk of infection at the puncture site
- ●Rarely, dizziness or lightheadedness during or after blood draw
Interfering Factors
- ●Hemolysis of the blood sample can interfere with results
- ●Severe renal impairment may cause falsely elevated B2M levels due to decreased clearance
- ●Certain medications such as aminoglycosides and cisplatin may affect B2M levels
- ●Acute or chronic inflammatory conditions may mildly elevate B2M
- ●Sample handling delays or improper storage may affect accuracy
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Beta-2-Microglobulin Serum Test | Serum Protein Electrophoresis (SPEP) | Free Light Chains (Kappa/Lambda) | Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) | Urine Beta-2-Microglobulin |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Beta-2-Microglobulin Serum Test | SPEP identifies abnormal immunoglobulin (M-protein) patterns in blood. B2M provides prognostic staging information. Both are used together in multiple myeloma evaluation. | Free light chains measure excess light chain production in plasma cell disorders. B2M measures tumour burden and is used for ISS staging. Together they improve diagnostic and prognostic accuracy. | LDH is a general marker of tissue damage and cell turnover. B2M is more specific to lymphoproliferative disorders. Both are used in lymphoma prognostic scoring systems. | Serum B2M reflects disease burden in malignancies. Urine B2M is primarily used to assess proximal renal tubular function. Elevated urine B2M suggests tubular kidney damage. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Beta-2-Microglobulin and why is it tested?
What does an elevated Beta-2-Microglobulin level indicate?
Is fasting required before the Beta-2-Microglobulin Serum Test?
How is the Beta-2-Microglobulin test performed?
What is the cost of the Beta-2-Microglobulin Serum Test at DNA Labs India?
How long does it take to get the results?
What is the normal range for Beta-2-Microglobulin in serum?
Can kidney disease affect Beta-2-Microglobulin levels?
Is the Beta-2-Microglobulin test used to diagnose multiple myeloma?
Is home sample collection available for this test?
Is the Beta-2-Microglobulin test covered by health insurance?
Can I get the Beta-2-Microglobulin test done at any age?
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