Beta-2 microglobulin blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Beta-2 microglobulin (B2M) is a small protein found on the surface of almost every cell in the body, and in particularly large amounts on white blood cells. It is shed into the blood as cells turn over and is filtered out by the kidneys. Its level therefore reflects both how actively certain cells are turning over and how well the kidneys are clearing it.

B2M is described as a tumour-associated marker because levels can be raised in some blood cancers, such as myeloma and lymphoma, where specialists use it to help assess and monitor the condition. It is not a cancer screening test. Raised levels are also common with reduced kidney function, inflammatory and autoimmune conditions and some viral infections, and a normal level does not rule out disease. The price includes the blood sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a review of your result with an Omnia practitioner and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You have a known blood condition, such as myeloma or lymphoma, and your specialist uses B2M for monitoring.
• You have been told your kidney function is reduced and your clinician has asked for B2M.
• You have an autoimmune or inflammatory condition and want a repeat of a marker your specialist follows.
• You would like a practitioner to discuss whether B2M is a useful test for your situation.

Understanding your result

Your report shows your B2M with the laboratory reference range. A raised level can be caused by reduced kidney filtration, inflammation, infection, autoimmune activity or, less commonly, a blood cancer, so it needs to be read alongside kidney tests such as creatinine and eGFR and your wider health history. Changes over time are often more informative than a single result.

If your result is raised, your practitioner will talk it through with you and may suggest you see your GP for further assessment. Your practitioner treats any abnormal figure as the start of a conversation, not a final answer.

Preparing for your test

There is no need to fast. Please tell us about any known kidney, blood or autoimmune condition and the medicines you take. If you take biotin or a hair, skin and nail supplement, stop it for 48 hours before your sample, as high doses can interfere with some laboratory methods.

Because kidney function strongly affects B2M, the Kidney Health Check is a useful companion test. B2M is also included in Omnia Signature. Our full list covers every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a beta-2 microglobulin test in Chiswick?

The beta-2 microglobulin test costs £119. This covers the sample at our W4 clinic, analysis at an accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report if you would like one.

Can this test show whether I have cancer?

No. B2M can be raised for many reasons, including kidney problems and inflammation, and it is not used to screen for cancer. Specialists use it to help monitor people already diagnosed with certain blood conditions.

Why does kidney function matter?

The kidneys clear B2M from the blood, so if they are filtering less well, the level rises. This is why B2M is read with kidney markers.

Should I book this as a general health check?

It is usually not the best starting point. A broader check, or a conversation with your practitioner about your concerns, is more helpful for most people.