Serum free light chain analysis for the diagnosis, management, and prognosis of plasma cell dyscrasias

Rao M, Yu WW, Chan J, Patel K, Comenzo R, Lamont JL, Ip S, Lau J
Record ID 32013000204
English
Authors' objectives: To summarize the literature regarding the role of the serum free light chain (SFLC) assay in diagnosis as an adjunct to traditional tests (defined as serum and urine electrophoresis or immunofixation electrophoresis), compared with traditional testing alone, and its role compared with traditional tests in the management of patients with plasma cell dyscrasias (PCDs).
Authors' recommendations: The role of the SFLC assay remains to be defined. The evidence was rated as insufficient to suggest that the assay may increase sensitivity when used as an adjunct to traditional testing for diagnosis of PCDs or that it was more effective for predicting and monitoring treatment response and for predicting patient survival. Methodological limitations of the studies reviewed preclude definitive conclusions regarding these potential uses. Future research should focus on standardization of diagnostic testing and monitoring algorithms in prespecified patient populations, with adherence to accepted definitions of outcomes and responses.
Details
Project Status: Completed
Year Published: 2012
URL for published report: http://www.effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/ehc/products/264/1229/CER73_SerumFreeLightChain_FinalReport_20120817.pdf
English language abstract: An English language summary is available
Publication Type: Not Assigned
Country: United States
MeSH Terms
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin Light Chains
  • Multiple Myeloma
Contact
Organisation Name: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
Contact Address: Center for Outcomes and Evidence Technology Assessment Program, 540 Gaither Road, Rockville, MD 20850, USA. Tel: +1 301 427 1610; Fax: +1 301 427 1639;
Contact Name: martin.erlichman@ahrq.hhs.gov
Contact Email: martin.erlichman@ahrq.hhs.gov
Copyright: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)
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