Beta2-microglobulin is commonly referred to as what?

Beta2-microglobulin is commonly known as part of the Bence Jones proteins. Bence Jones proteins are light chains of immunoglobulins that are produced by certain types of plasma cells, particularly in conditions like multiple myeloma. Beta2-microglobulin, which is a component of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules, can be elevated in diseases involving increased cell turnover, such as malignancies or hematologic disorders.

In multiple myeloma, the presence of Bence Jones proteins in the urine is diagnostic, and beta2-microglobulin levels can also serve as a prognostic factor in these diseases. This makes the association between beta2-microglobulin and Bence Jones proteins particularly relevant in clinical settings, especially in recognizing and managing conditions like multiple myeloma.

The other choices represent distinct proteins and biomarkers with unrelated roles in pathology. Surfactant proteins are involved in lung function, alpha-fetoprotein is primarily associated with liver tumors and certain germ cell tumors, and C-reactive protein is an acute phase reactant indicative of inflammation. Thus, they do not relate to beta2-microglobulin in the same context.