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Specimen Collection Manual and Test Catalog

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BETA-2-MICROGLOBULIN, SERUM

Geisinger Epic Procedure Code:  LAB1838    Geisinger Epic ID:  45913

SPECIMEN COLLECTION
Specimen type: 

Serum


Preferred collection container: 
Alternate collection container: 
6 mL red-top (plain, non-serum separator) tube
Specimen required: 

1 mL serum; minimum 0.5 mL


Patient preparation: 

Overnight fasting is preferred.



SPECIMEN PROCESSING
Processing instructions: 

Centrifuge and aliquot.


Transport temperature: 

Refrigerated.


Specimen stability: 

Room temperature: 5 days. Refrigerated: 7 days. Frozen: 30 days.


Rejection criteria: 

Hemolysis, lipemia.



TEST DETAILS
CPT code(s):  82232
Note: The billing party has sole responsibility for CPT coding.  Any questions regarding coding should be directed to the payer being billed.
The CPT codes provided by GML are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only.

Methodology: 
Nephelometry
Synonyms: 

Quest test code 852, B2MGLB


Clinical significance: 

Beta-2-microglobulin normally passes through the glomerulus into the proximal tubule where much of it is reabsorbed. Serum levels are therefore an index of glomerular function. When impaired, serum levels rise in inverse ratio to glomerular filtration rate. Increased amounts of beta-2-microglobulin are excreted in several renal disorders, e.g., Balkan nephropathy, heavy metal poisoning and renal tubular disease due to therapeutic agents. Serial levels of beta-2-microglobulin in serum and urine are used to evaluate transplant viability and anticipate rejection. Following a successful graft, serum levels decline toward normal. Increasing serum levels provide an early sign of rejection. Elevated levels are also noted in lymphproliferative disorders, neoplasms (malignant and benign), inflammatory disease, and autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sjögren's disease.


Review Date:  12/05/2024

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