IgLCF

IgLCF stands for Immunoglobulin Lambda Light Chain Factor. It refers to the abnormal production of immunoglobulin lambda light chains. Immunoglobulins, also known as antibodies, are proteins produced by plasma cells to help the immune system fight off infections. They are composed of heavy and light chains, which can be either kappa or lambda types. Normally, the production of kappa and lambda light chains is balanced.

When there is an overproduction of one type of light chain, particularly lambda light chains, and these chains are not properly assembled into complete antibodies, they can be excreted in the urine. This phenomenon is known as Bence Jones protein. The presence of excess lambda light chains, often in the form of Bence Jones protein, can be indicative of a plasma cell dyscrasia, such as multiple myeloma or amyloidosis.

Diagnostic evaluation for IgLCF typically involves urine and blood tests to measure the levels of free light chains. Elevated levels of free lambda light chains, especially when disproportionately higher than kappa light chains, are a key indicator. Monitoring these levels can also be important in assessing the response to treatment for underlying plasma cell disorders. The term IgLCF is less commonly used in clinical practice than referring directly to the presence of monoclonal lambda light chains or Bence Jones protein.