Assay

Bence Jones Protein

Key Words

Urine electrophoresis, BJP

Specimen Collection

Urine (20ml universal container or 7ml universal yellow container). Samples are stable for up to 7 days when refrigerated, and stored frozen prior to analysis upon receipt in the laboratory. Acid preservatives must not be used.

Turnaround time

1 week

Test indications

Bence Jones protein is used in the investigation of myeloma for the detection of free light chains (Kappa or Lambda) that are excreted via the kidneys. The process involves the electrophoresis of urine, followed by detection of the component protein bands by staining. Urines with atypical electrophoretic patterns then undergo immunofixation for confirmation of the presence of a monoclonal gammaglobulin and typing of the clonality.

Analysis is batched, and due to the requirement of further testing, please be aware that reports may take up to two weeks.

Methodology

Gel electrophoresis and Immunofixation

Interferences

No known common methodological interferences

Reference Range

N/A

Analytical error

13.1%

Reference change value

N/A

Minimum retesting interval

Requests made within 28 days of a previous result on a patient are intervened.