IgG Kappa
IgG Kappa refers to a subtype of immunoglobulin G (IgG) that contains kappa light chains. Immunoglobulins are antibodies produced by B cells of the immune system and play a crucial role in defending against infections.
### Clinical Interpretation of IgG Kappa 1. Normal Physiology:
- Immunoglobulins consist of heavy chains and light chains.
- There are two types of light chains: kappa and lambda.
- Normally, there is a balanced ratio between kappa and lambda light chains.
2. Increased IgG Kappa:
- May indicate a clonal expansion of plasma cells producing this specific immunoglobulin.
- Commonly associated with monoclonal gammopathies, such as:
- IgG Kappa Multiple Myeloma.
- Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS).
- Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia.
- B-cell Lymphoma.
3. Decreased IgG Kappa:
- May be seen in immunodeficiencies, such as hypogammaglobulinemia or Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID).
- Can also occur in disorders affecting antibody production, including certain leukemias or lymphomas.
4. Kappa/Lambda Ratio:
- The serum kappa-to-lambda light chain ratio is an important diagnostic marker for monoclonal gammopathies.
- A high ratio suggests clonal proliferation of kappa-producing plasma cells.
- A low ratio suggests lambda light chain dominance, which can also indicate a plasma cell disorder.
### When Is an IgG Kappa Test Ordered? - To evaluate monoclonal gammopathies. - For diagnosis and monitoring of multiple myeloma. - In assessing immune deficiencies. - For detecting lymphoproliferative disorders.
If IgG Kappa levels are abnormal, additional tests may be needed, such as: - Serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP). - Immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE). - Serum free light chain assay (FLC). - Bone marrow biopsy if multiple myeloma is suspected.