Great question! In myeloma, plasma cells produce abnormal proteins called light chains. These come in two types: kappa and lambda. The type you have is determined by which kind of light chain your myeloma cells are making.
Here's a simple breakdown:
- Kappa light chain myeloma — the more common of the two types
- Lambda Show Full Answer
Great question! In myeloma, plasma cells produce abnormal proteins called light chains. These come in two types: kappa and lambda. The type you have is determined by which kind of light chain your myeloma cells are making.
Here's a simple breakdown:
- Kappa light chain myeloma — the more common of the two types
- Lambda light chain myeloma — less common, but still frequently seen
Both types fall under the category of light chain myeloma, which means the myeloma cells are producing light chain proteins rather than full antibody proteins.
One important thing to know is that people with light chain myeloma (either kappa or lambda) have a significantly higher risk of kidney damage compared to other myeloma types. This makes monitoring kidney function especially important.
Your doctor will track your light chain levels using a test called the serum free light chain assay. The ratio of kappa to lambda light chains in your blood is a key marker used to monitor how active the disease is and whether treatment is working.
If you're unsure which type you have or what your levels mean, it's always worth asking your care team to walk you through your latest results.
April 24
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Email
Join
Your Privacy Choices
