Table of Contents
What tests reveal multiple myeloma?
Diagnosing multiple myeloma includes blood work, a 24-hour urine collection, a bone marrow biopsy, imaging studies (such as x-rays, MRIs, PET scans) and bone density tests.
Can multiple myeloma be detected by a blood test?
Blood work might reveal the abnormal cells that myeloma produces, including M proteins and beta-2-microglobulin. The type of proteins found in the blood can also confirm the aggressiveness of the myeloma. In addition, doctors can use blood work to check for blood cell counts, kidney function, and calcium levels.
What are the first warning signs of multiple myeloma?
Symptoms
- Bone pain, especially in your spine or chest.
- Nausea.
- Constipation.
- Loss of appetite.
- Mental fogginess or confusion.
- Fatigue.
- Frequent infections.
- Weight loss.
What lab values indicate multiple myeloma?
Calcium: A high level of calcium suggests active reabsorption of bone and thus active myeloma. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH): A high level of this enzyme may indicate active myeloma. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine: These are indicators of kidney function.
What does myeloma back pain feel like?
Bone pain. Multiple myeloma can cause pain in affected bones – usually the back, ribs or hips. The pain is frequently a persistent dull ache, which may be made worse by movement.
What is an M spike test?
– A monoclonal spike (M-Spike), the sharp pattern that occurs on protein electrophoresis, is the telltale indicator of M-protein in the blood, a marker for the activity of myeloma cells. What is the Urine protein electrophoresis (UPEP) test? This test measures specific proteins in the urine.
Does multiple myeloma cause leg pain?
Nerve damage: Myeloma proteins can be toxic to your nerves. This can lead to a condition called peripheral neuropathy that causes a pins-and-needles feeling, often in your legs and feet.
Can myeloma affect eyesight?
Uncommonly, myeloma itself may have direct effects on the eye. In some cases, large amounts of paraprotein (the abnormal antibody produced by myeloma cells) can make the blood thicker. This is called hyperviscosity. This can sometimes reduce or even block the blood supply to the eye and cause loss of vision.
What does no paraprotein detected mean?
If no paraprotein is detected after treatment or light chains return to normal levels, it is considered a complete response (CR). If the paraprotein has fallen and is still detectable and stable after treatment it is considered a partial response (PR).
What tests should I have to check for multiple myeloma?
Lab tests. The complete blood count (CBC) is a test that measures the levels of red cells,white cells,and platelets in the blood.
What test result will rule out multiple myeloma?
To diagnose or rule out multiple myeloma, your doctor may order blood tests to check for M proteins produced by plasma cells. This protein will be in your blood if you have the disease. Blood testing may also find beta-2 microglobulin, which is another abnormal protein.
What tests are used to check for multiple myeloma?
Blood tests that indicate multiple myeloma includes the presence of Beta-2 Microglobulin, C – reactive protein, and M-protein. Also, Kidney function tests and complete blood count also provide important information regarding the existence of the disease.
Can a blood test detect multiple myeloma?
In some cases, your doctor may detect multiple myeloma accidentally when you undergo a blood test for some other condition. In other cases, your doctor may suspect multiple myeloma based on your signs and symptoms. Tests and procedures used to diagnose multiple myeloma include: Blood tests.