What is the Beta-2 Microglobulin (Serum) Test?

Beta-2 microglobulin is a small protein found on the surface of most nucleated cells and is released into the bloodstream during normal cell turnover. It is filtered by the kidneys and almost completely reabsorbed, making blood levels sensitive to both immune activity and kidney function.

Elevated serum beta-2 microglobulin levels may reflect increased cell turnover, immune system activation or impaired kidney filtration. Because of this dual role, the test is widely used in both nephrology and oncology settings.

It is particularly valuable in assessing disease activity and prognosis in certain blood cancers.

Why do I need a test for Beta-2 Microglobulin?

You may need this test if there is concern about immune system activation, kidney dysfunction or specific haematological malignancies. Beta-2 microglobulin is commonly used as a tumour marker and prognostic indicator in conditions such as multiple myeloma and some lymphomas.

The test is also useful in evaluating chronic inflammatory states and monitoring disease progression or response to treatment. Results must always be interpreted in the context of kidney function and other clinical findings.

Symptoms and scenarios where testing is recommended:

• Monitoring multiple myeloma
• Assessment of lymphoma disease activity
• Chronic kidney disease evaluation
• Unexplained immune activation
• Persistent inflammation
• Monitoring treatment response in blood cancers
• Prognostic assessment in haematological disorders
• Investigation of abnormal protein markers

Benefits of the Beta-2 Microglobulin Test

• Important tumour marker in blood cancers
  Helps assess disease burden and prognosis.
• Supports monitoring of multiple myeloma
  Higher levels often reflect more active disease.
• Assesses immune system activation
  Indicates increased cellular turnover.
• Reflects kidney filtration efficiency
  Elevated levels may signal impaired kidney function.
• Useful for treatment monitoring
  Changes in levels can track response to therapy.
• Supports risk stratification
  Helps guide clinical decision-making.
• Widely used and clinically validated marker
  Established role in oncology and nephrology.
• Simple blood-based assessment
  Requires only a standard blood sample.

Step-by-Step: How Testing Works

Choose your preferred testing method

You can attend one of our UK partner clinics or arrange a home or hotel visit with a mobile phlebotomist.

Option 1 – In-Clinic Blood Draw

1. Select your nearest UK clinic and book an appointment.
2. A clinician or phlebotomist collects a venous blood sample.
3. The sample is analysed for beta-2 microglobulin levels.
4. Results are delivered securely online.

Option 2 – Home or Hotel Phlebotomy (+£60)

1. Book a UK-wide home or hotel visit at a convenient time.
2. A trained phlebotomist collects your blood sample on-site.
3. The sample is transported to the laboratory.
4. Results are uploaded digitally without the need to travel.

Your Results Explained

Low Levels

Low beta-2 microglobulin levels are considered normal.
They suggest normal immune activity and effective kidney filtration.
Typical UK reference range: ~0.7–1.8 mg/L (may vary by laboratory).

Normal Levels

Normal results indicate balanced cell turnover and kidney handling.
This supports stable immune and renal function.

High Levels

Elevated beta-2 microglobulin levels may indicate increased immune activation, kidney dysfunction or active haematological disease.
Results must be interpreted alongside kidney markers, imaging and clinical findings.