Bence Jones protein urine test
Quick answer: This urine test looks for Bence Jones protein, small antibody pieces (free light chains) made by abnormal plasma cells. Doctors may order it when they suspect multiple myeloma or a related plasma cell disorder.
- SampleUrine
- TakesA few minutes, or a full day for a 24-hour collection
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed; follow the lab's instructions if an early morning sample is requested.
How the test is done
- 1Your doctor asks for a single sample or all urine over 24 hours
- 2For a 24-hour test, you flush the first morning urine and collect the rest
- 3You return the container to the lab as instructed
- 4The lab looks for light chains, often using a method called electrophoresis
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A positive result needs further tests, such as protein electrophoresis, before any diagnosis; discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
Bence Jones protein in urine can be seen with multiple myeloma and related plasma cell disorders. A negative result means none was found, though it does not rule out every plasma cell disorder.
Who usually has this test
Adults, usually older adults, with unexplained bone pain, anaemia, kidney problems or high protein in the blood.
Risks and aftercare
There are no risks; keep a 24-hour sample cool if the lab asks you to.
Names and options
Also called: BJP urine, urine light chains
Listed by the hospital as
- BENCE JONES PROTEIN, URINE (QUALITATIVE)
Questions about this test
Is Bence Jones protein the same as protein in a routine urine test?
No. A standard urine dipstick mainly picks up albumin and can miss Bence Jones protein. A separate test is needed to look for these light chains.
Does a positive result mean cancer?
It can be a sign of multiple myeloma, but it is also seen in other plasma cell conditions, some of which are not cancer. Doctors use blood tests, and often a bone marrow study, to find out more.
How do I collect a 24-hour urine sample?
Pass your first morning urine into the toilet and note the time. Collect every drop after that for the next 24 hours, including the first urine the next morning, and return the container as instructed.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.