Multiple myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells in the bone marrow. The most common symptom of multiple myeloma is an increase in calcium levels in the blood. Other signs and symptoms of multiple myeloma include anemia, low levels of red blood cells, fatigue, recurrent infections, bone pain, broken bones, kidney problems, and increased levels of certain proteins in the blood.
In addition, people affected by multiple myeloma may experience other symptoms, including night sweats, fever, weight loss, and appetite loss. Blood and urine tests may also be conducted to measure calcium levels, protein levels, and other factors that may indicate multiple myeloma.
Imaging scans such as X-rays and MRIs can be used to view the bones to look for areas of bone destruction and increased bone marrow activity, which can help with diagnosis. Finally, a bone marrow biopsy can be used to obtain samples of the cancerous cells for further examination.
What is the gold standard in diagnosing multiple myeloma?
The gold standard for diagnosing multiple myeloma is a combination of physical examination, imaging techniques, laboratory tests and biopsy of affected tissue. Physical examination is used to assess the presence of signs and symptoms associated with multiple myeloma.
Imaging techniques such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and chest CT scans can help identify changes in bone structure and detect the presence of tumors. Blood tests can detect abnormal levels of proteins and antibodies, as well as abnormal blood cells.
If further evidence is needed, a bone marrow biopsy can be performed, which involves removing a small sample of bone marrow which then can be examined under a microscope to verify the diagnosis of multiple myeloma.
In certain cases, other tests such as cytogenetic analysis or fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) can be used to help diagnose the disease.
How is multiple myeloma first detected?
Multiple myeloma is typically detected through a routine blood test or an imaging scan such as an MRI or CT scan. The main purpose of the blood test is to measure the levels of an abnormal type of protein, known as M-protein or monoclonal protein, that is associated with the presence of multiple myeloma.
The presence of an elevated level of M-protein is an indication of an abnormal plasma cell or myeloma cell. Other tests that may be ordered to diagnose multiple myeloma include a skeletal survey, an MRI of the brain, and a urine test to detect an abnormal light chain of the M-protein.
In some cases, a bone marrow biopsy may need to be done to confirm a diagnosis.
Would myeloma show up in a routine blood test?
No, myeloma would not typically show up in a routine blood test. Myeloma is a type of cancer that affects the plasma cells in the bone marrow, and is diagnosed through specific tests, such as a complete blood count, an immunophenotypic assay, a skeletal survey, urine tests, and/or a biopsy.
These tests are not typically part of a routine blood test, and generally only need to be done if your doctor suspects that you may have myeloma based on your symptoms.
Where does multiple myeloma usually start?
Multiple myeloma usually starts in the bone marrow, the soft spongy material found in the center of most bones. In multiple myeloma, cancerous plasma cells (a type of white blood cell involved in producing antibodies) grow and affect other cells in bone marrow.
This leads to an overproduction of certain proteins, and can result in weakened bones and anemia. In some cases, the cancerous plasma cells can spread, or metastasize, to other parts of the body and damage organs and tissues.
Although the exact cause of multiple myeloma is unknown, doctors believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may contribute to its development.
Is multiple myeloma difficult to diagnose?
Yes, multiple myeloma can be difficult to diagnose. This is because it often has no noticeable symptoms or signs in its early stages, and because it is rare, it may not be considered until more severe signs become apparent.
The diagnosis of multiple myeloma is often made from laboratory tests, such as blood tests and urine tests, to measure the amount of protein and other inflammatory markers related to multiple myeloma.
Imaging tests, like a bone scan, are helpful in identifying any potential skeletal damage caused by the disease. Other tests, like genetic tests and enzyme assays, can also help doctors diagnose multiple myeloma.
A biopsy of the bone marrow is also often required for confirmation. All of these tests help to identify any changes in the structure of the cells of the bone marrow, which can indicate the presence of multiple myeloma.
Therefore, diagnosing multiple myeloma can take several visits to the doctor, various tests, and a considerable amount of time, making it a difficult condition to diagnose.
Where does myeloma spread to first?
Myeloma, also known as multiple myeloma, is a cancer of the plasma cells, which are a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow. While the exact origin of this disease is still unknown, it is known that myeloma can spread to other parts of the body, including bone and soft tissue.
When myeloma spreads, it typically does so first to the bones, most commonly in the back, ribs, skull, and pelvis. During this process, the cancer cells replace healthy bone marrow and weaken the affected bones, which can lead to fractures.
Myeloma can also spread to certain organs, such as the kidneys, lungs, and spleen.
The spread of myeloma is usually contingent on the stage of the disease, as well as the tumor’s size and location. Early-stage myeloma, for example, is generally localized, while more advanced cases can cause cancer cells to metastasize, or spread, to other organs or distant parts of the body.
In such cases, myeloma can cause excess calcium levels in the blood, as well as deformities in bones, weakened muscles, and immunosuppression, among other symptoms. In order to diagnose myeloma and its spread, doctors may use blood tests, imaging scans, and biopsies.
No matter which stage the myeloma is in, it is important to seek prompt medical treatment from a specialist. Depending on the type and spread of myeloma, a combination of treatments can be used to best manage the disease and any related symptoms.
These treatments can include systemic therapies such as chemotherapy and targeted therapies targeted therapies like monoclonal antibodies. Additionally, stem cell transplants may be recommended for certain patients as part of an effective overall treatment plan.
How long can you have multiple myeloma without knowing?
You can have multiple myeloma without knowing for an extended period of time if it is not an aggressive form of multiple myeloma. The signs and symptoms of multiple myeloma can often be vague and non-specific, or may not be present at all.
A person may go for a period of time without knowing they have multiple myeloma if their symptoms are unnoticeable or mild. Additionally, as multiple myeloma typically affects older adults, many of the symptoms can be attributed to simply getting older, such as increasing fatigue, muscular weakness and frequent infections.
There are test which can detect the underlying presence of multiple myeloma, such as urine and blood tests, making it more likely that an individual will be aware of the diagnosis.