Beta-2-Microglobulin in urine

The beta-2-microglobulin in urine (B2M) analysis is a test that measures the amount of B2M protein in the urine. B2M is a type of tumor marker, a substance often produced by cancer cells or normal cells in response to cancer. This analysis can be conducted at the private laboratory in Belgrade, IntroLab, where various biochemical urine analyses are performed.

Why is the analysis performed?

The analysis of beta-2-microglobulin in urine is most commonly used if you have been diagnosed with a certain type of bone marrow or blood cancer. Testing your B2M levels can help:

• Determine the amount of cancer in your body
• Predict how your cancer will develop
• Choose a treatment or check if the existing one is working
• Check if cancer has spread to your brain and/or spinal cord (This is only done if you have symptoms.)

How to prepare for the analysis?

No special preparation is needed for this test. Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including those prescribed and over-the-counter, as well as any dietary supplements, to ensure nothing will affect the results.

How is the beta-2-microglobulin in urine analysis performed?

The analysis requires collecting all urine portions over a 24-hour period. You will receive a special container for collecting urine and instructions on how to collect and store your samples. Your doctor will tell you when to start.

Results

If your B2M levels are measured to learn more about your cancer, know that the higher your levels, the more cancer you have in your body. Additionally, higher levels are associated with cancer that tends to grow faster. If you have multiple myeloma, higher levels of B2M are likely linked to kidney problems.

If your B2M levels are measured to check how well your treatment is working, your doctor may ask you to do the analysis several times to monitor the levels of this protein over time. Accordingly, an increase in B2M levels may mean that your treatment is not working, while a decrease may indicate that the therapy is effective. On the other hand, B2M levels that do not change typically mean that the disease is stable and has neither improved nor worsened.

If you have questions about the beta-2-microglobulin in urine analysis, contact IntroLab laboratory in Belgrade. Our expert team is here to provide all the necessary information, as well as much-needed support.