Browse Medical Laboratory Calculators
Kappa (κ) Light Chain Unit Converter
Kappa (κ) Light Chains are small protein subunits that, along with Lambda (λ) chains, form the light chain portion of antibodies (immunoglobulins). They are produced in excess by plasma cells and circulate as Free Light Chains (FLCs).
[Image of free light chain production and structure]The concentration of κ FLCs is critical for the diagnosis and monitoring of monoclonal gammopathies such as Multiple Myeloma and Amyloidosis. In these conditions, a single clone of plasma cells produces an abnormal excess of either κ or λ chains, causing a highly abnormal Kappa/Lambda ratio and elevated absolute concentrations. FLCs are typically reported in mg/L or mg/dL.
SI Units / Molar
RecommendedMilligrams per liter or Nanomoles per liter.
Mass Equivalents
Clinical Context
Reference Range (κ FLC): Typically 3.3–19.4 mg/L (24.8–145.4 nmol/L).
The primary diagnostic measure is the Kappa/Lambda Ratio, which should be maintained between 0.26 and 1.65. An abnormal ratio, alongside elevated absolute levels, is characteristic of plasma cell dyscrasias. The conversion factor relies on molecular weight 22,000 g/mol: 1 mg/L ≈ 45.45 nmol/L.
Clinical References
How to Use This Calculator
Follow these steps to get accurate clinical conversions instantly.
Enter Values
Input your laboratory results into the corresponding unit field (e.g., mg/L). You can use either dot or comma decimals.
Automatic Conversion
The calculator works in real-time. Conversions cover both mass (mg/L) and molar (nmol/L) units.
Verify Units
Check the SI Units section. mg/L is numerically identical to µg/mL.
Reset
Use the Clear button to reset all fields before starting a new calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
Yes. 1 mg/L = 1 µg/mL.
The ratio of κ to λ is usually far more informative than the absolute concentration of either chain alone for plasma cell disorders.