What does beta-2 microglobulin indicate?
A beta-2 microglobulin tumor marker test is most often given to people who have been diagnosed with certain cancers of the bone marrow or blood. The test may be used to: Figure out the severity of cancer and whether it has spread. This process is known as cancer staging.
What are beta 2 globulins?
The beta-2-globulin fraction represents the total of the complement C3 and IgA, two proteins with widely different functions. C3 or complement C3 is a liver protein involved in the “complement pathway”, which is a normal defensive mechanism.
Is beta-2 microglobulin the same as beta globulin?
Beta globulins are a group of globular proteins in plasma that are more mobile in alkaline or electrically charged solutions than gamma globulins, but less mobile than alpha globulins. Examples of beta globulins include: beta-2 microglobulin.
What is beta in your blood?
A small protein normally found on the surface of many cells, including lymphocytes, and in small amounts in the blood and urine. An increased amount in the blood or urine may be a sign of certain diseases, including some types of cancer, such as multiple myeloma or lymphoma.
What does a high beta 2 glycoprotein mean?
A positive beta-2 glycoprotein 1 antibody test may indicate that you have antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), as they are most frequently seen with this condition. If the test is positive, it will be repeated about 12 weeks later to determine whether it is persistent or temporary.
What is a normal beta 2 microglobulin level?
Reference Range Normal findings : Blood: 0.70-1.80 mcg/mL. Urine: ≤300 mcg/L. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF): 0-2.4 mg/L.
What is the function of beta 2 microglobulin?
Beta-2-microglobulin (β 2-microglobulin) is a component of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules that is present on all nucleated cells (excluding red blood cells). In humans, the β 2 -microglobulin protein is encoded by the B2M gene.
How is beta 2 microglobulin ( B2M ) used as a tumor marker?
This test measures the amount of a protein called beta-2 microglobulin (B2M) in the blood, urine, or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). B2M is a type of tumor marker. Tumor markers are substances made by cancer cells or by normal cells in response to cancer in the body. B2M is found on the surface of many cells and is released into the body.
Why are β 2 microglobulin levels high in myeloma?
The prognostic value of serum β 2 -microglobulin levels in myeloma is probably due to two factors: High levels are associated with greater tumor burden. High levels are also associated with renal failure, which carries an unfavorable prognosis.
Why does cystatin C have the same problems as microglobulin?
This protein has the same problems as cystatin C because its production may or may not be constant and it is metabolized.
