[Lillyput189]

Increased IGA & lambda light chains

by Lillyput189 on Fri Nov 01, 2013 2:44 am

Question: I've had a high IGA for some time now. Light chains were always negative. Now I have elevated lambda light chains but K/L ratio is still within normal limits. What does this mean? Thanks!

[Ron Harvot]

Re: Increased IGA & lambda light chains

by Ron Harvot on Fri Nov 01, 2013 11:26 pm

You need to discuss the results with your oncologist. Generally if the ratio is normal even if one or both the kappa or lambda are high is still a favorable test.

Here is a link to a "pocket guide" that helps interpret the Freelite results.

http://www.thebindingsite.com/interpretation-of-freelite-results

Keep in mind this is merely a pocket guide and is very general so consultation with your multiple myeloma specialist is what you really need to do.

Ron

[Lillyput189]

Re: Increased IGA & lambda light chains

by Lillyput189 on Sat Nov 02, 2013 1:44 am

Thanks Ron for the info!

[Wayne K]

Re: Increased IGA & lambda light chains

by Wayne K on Sat Nov 02, 2013 11:08 am

You say elevated, but not whether they are out of the norm. The ratio is just as important. My numbers within the norm have fluctuated up until my last test. My Lambda moved up out of the norm and my ratio dropped also. While I have some concern now, the movement within the norms never persisted in the past.
It may be too early for you to be concerned.

[Dr. Jason Valent]

Re: Increased IGA & lambda light chains

by Dr. Jason Valent on Sun Nov 03, 2013 4:39 pm

If the IgA level is stable, will want to repeat the light chains and see if there is a trend upward in the lambda. The problem with the light chain test is there is no way to know if "clonality" is present as can be done with immunofixation tests for intact immunoglobulins. Mild fluctuations in the light chain levels can occur as a result of normal immune function.

I hope that made sense.

[Lillyput189]

Re: Increased IGA & lambda light chains

by Lillyput189 on Sun Nov 03, 2013 5:33 pm

Thank you Dr Jason. I'm having IFE & repeat tests this week.