Cooper EH, Plesner T. Beta-2-microglobulin review: its relevance in clinical oncology.
MEDICAL AND PEDIATRIC ONCOLOGY 1980;
8:323-34. [PMID:
6161299 DOI:
10.1002/mpo.2950080403]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Beta-2-microglobulin (beta 2-m) is an intrinsic part of the HLA system and is most probably involved in cell recognition. The levels of free beta 2-m in the blood and urine are influenced by beta 2-m production and its clearance and destruction in the kidney. Many tumors can be associated with an elevated serum beta 2-m, the reason is unknown. The most promising application of beta 2-m as a tumor marker would appear to be lymphoid malignancies, especially multiple myeloma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
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