Multiple myeloma
Alternative Names
Plasma cell dyscrasia; Plasma cell myeloma; Malignant plasmacytoma; Plasmacytoma of bone; Myeloma - multipleSymptoms
- Bone or back pain
- Unexplained fractures
- Bleeding problems
- Increased susceptibility to infection
- Symptoms of anemia (such as tiredness, shortness of breath, and fatigue)
Exams and Tests
Blood tests can help diagnose this disease.
- A newer blood test called the Freelite diagnostic assay can be used to diagnose and monitor multiple myeloma.
- A blood chemistry test shows increased levels of calcium, total protein, and abnormal kidney function.
- A complete blood count (CBC) reveals low hematocrit (anemia) and a low number of red and white blood cells and platelets.
- Serum protein electrophoresis, a test to measure various types of protein part of the blood, is abnormal.
Bone x-rays show fractures or hollowed out areas of bone. If your doctor suspects this type of cancer, a bone marrow biopsy will be performed.
This disease may also alter the results of the following tests:- Bone lesion biopsy
- Serum globulin electrophoresis
- Quantitative immunoglobulins (nephelometry)
- Serum immunoelectrophoresis
- ESR
- Cryoglobulins
- Blood differential
- Ionized calcium
- Protein in urine
- Urine immunofixation
- Urine immunoelectrophoresis
- Calcium in urine
- Bence-Jones protein (quantitative)
- 24-hr urine protein
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