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Bence-Jones Protein

137.00

This test detects Bence-Jones proteins in urine. It is used to investigate and monitor plasma cell disorders, including multiple myeloma.

Turnaround time

2 days

Biomarkers count

1

Same-Day Appointments
UKAS Accredited Labs

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Under 18? Patients under 18 can only be seen at GB Medlabs and Clinilabs, Monday to Friday only.
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Details about Bence-Jones Protein

What is the Bence-Jones Protein Test?

 

The Bence-Jones Protein test detects free light chains (kappa or lambda) excreted in the urine. These proteins are produced by abnormal plasma cells and are not normally present in urine in measurable amounts.

 

In plasma cell disorders, such as multiple myeloma, excess light chains circulate in the blood and are filtered by the kidneys, appearing in the urine as Bence-Jones proteins. Their presence is a key diagnostic and monitoring marker in haematological malignancies.

This test is typically performed on a urine sample and is often used alongside blood tests such as serum free light chains and protein electrophoresis.

 

Why do I need a test for Bence-Jones Protein?

 

You may need this test if a plasma cell disorder is suspected or if you are being monitored for a known condition such as multiple myeloma. Bence-Jones proteins can cause kidney damage, making early detection clinically important.

 

The test is also useful when unexplained bone pain, anaemia, recurrent infections or kidney dysfunction are present. Monitoring levels over time helps assess disease progression and response to treatment.

 

Symptoms and scenarios where testing is recommended:

  • Suspected multiple myeloma
  • Monitoring known plasma cell disorders
  • Unexplained bone pain
  • Persistent fatigue or anaemia
  • Recurrent infections
  • Kidney impairment of unclear cause
  • Abnormal protein levels on blood tests
  • Disease progression or treatment monitoring

 

Benefits of the Bence-Jones Protein Test

 

  • Key marker for plasma cell disorders
    Supports diagnosis of multiple myeloma and related conditions.
  • Assesses kidney involvement
    Identifies light-chain–related renal risk.
  • Supports early diagnosis
    Detects abnormal protein excretion before advanced disease.
  • Monitors disease activity
    Useful for tracking progression or relapse.
  • Guides treatment decisions
    Helps clinicians assess response to therapy.
  • Complements blood-based protein tests
    Adds diagnostic accuracy when used with serum markers.
  • Non-invasive urine-based testing
    No blood draw required.
  • Widely used in haematology practice
    Established role in cancer diagnostics.

 

Step-by-Step: How Testing Works

 

Choose your preferred testing method

 

Urine Sample Collection

  1. Attend your chosen UK clinic or receive collection instructions.
  2. Provide a urine sample (spot or timed collection as advised).
  3. The sample is analysed for Bence-Jones proteins.
  4. Results are delivered securely online.

 

Access your report

You can download and share your results with your GP, haematologist or oncologist.

 

Your Results Explained

 

Negative Result

No Bence-Jones proteins detected in urine.
This suggests no significant free light chain excretion at the time of testing.

 

Low Levels

Small amounts may indicate early or low-level plasma cell activity.
Further blood testing or monitoring may be recommended.

 

High Levels

Elevated Bence-Jones proteins suggest active plasma cell disorder.
This is commonly associated with multiple myeloma and requires specialist interpretation.

How It Works

Simple steps to get your results

1

Book Online

Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.

2

Visit or Test at Home

Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.

3

Get Your Results

Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.

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How to Prepare for Your Test

Follow these guidelines for accurate results

Sample Timing

Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.

Fasting & Hydration

Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.

Medications & Supplements

Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.

Hormones & Menstrual Cycle

For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.

If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Free immunoglobulin light chains produced by abnormal plasma cells.

It is strongly associated but may also appear in related disorders.

Light chains are filtered by the kidneys and excreted in urine.

No fasting is required.

Yes, it may identify early abnormal protein production.

It supports diagnosis but must be interpreted with other tests.

Yes, kidney function influences protein excretion.

Yes, levels often change with effective therapy.

Yes, it is commonly used for long-term monitoring.

Referral to a haematologist for further investigation is recommended.

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