Elevated beta-2 microglobulin
Mar 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, beta-2 microglobulin is a protein that should only be present in urine and exists at very low levels in the blood. Elevated levels of beta-2 microglobulin may be associated with conditions such as chronic glomerulonephritis, acute interstitial nephritis, acute pyelonephritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and diabetic nephropathy, among others, and require symptomatic treatment.
Under normal circumstances, β2-microglobulin is a protein that should only be present in urine, with very low levels found in the blood. Elevated levels of β2-microglobulin may be associated with conditions such as chronic glomerulonephritis, acute interstitial nephritis, acute pyelonephritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, diabetic nephropathy, and other factors. Symptomatic treatment is required, and specific analyses are as follows:
1. Chronic Glomerulonephritis
This condition develops slowly and is accompanied by declining kidney function, manifesting symptoms such as proteinuria, hematuria, hypertension, and edema. These impair the glomerular filtration capacity and damage the reabsorption ability of renal tubules, leading to inadequate absorption of β2-microglobulin and consequently elevated urinary β2-microglobulin levels. Patients may, under medical guidance, use medications such as Bailing Capsules or Nephritis Spirit Granules to alleviate symptoms.
2. Acute Interstitial Nephritis
This disease is caused by various underlying conditions and has an abrupt onset. It involves interstitial edema and renal tubular injury, resulting in elevated β2-microglobulin levels and proteinuria. Treatment may include medications such as rifampicin capsules or losartan potassium hydrochlorothiazide tablets, taken as directed by a physician.
3. Acute Pyelonephritis
This condition is generally caused by pathogenic microorganisms infecting the renal pelvis and kidney tissue, leading to symptoms such as high fever, headache, and proteinuria. β2-microglobulin levels in the body rise accordingly. Under medical advice, patients may be treated with medications such as compound sulfamethoxazole tablets or ceftriaxone sodium for injection.
4. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
SLE is a chronic diffuse connective tissue disease of unknown cause that affects multiple systems throughout the body. It leads to the production of large amounts of autoantibodies, causing damage to multiple organs and tissues. When the blood system is affected, it can result in the aforementioned condition. Under professional medical supervision, patients may take medications such as methylprednisolone tablets or prednisone acetate tablets to improve their condition.
5. Diabetic Nephropathy
Elevated glucose levels in the blood lead to diabetes, which places additional strain on kidney function and impairs renal tubular function, causing severe tubular injury. This results in elevated blood β2-microglobulin levels, although other indicators may remain normal. Regular screening and periodic check-ups are essential. Maintaining healthy lifestyle, dietary, and sleep habits is recommended. Medications such as sitagliptin phosphate tablets or irbesartan tablets may be used for treatment.
In addition, elevated β2-microglobulin levels could also be caused by hypertension, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, multiple myeloma, and other conditions. Individuals experiencing the above symptoms should seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a reputable hospital.
