Does multiple myeloma show up in routine blood tests?
In many cases, myeloma is discovered when blood tests, done as part of a routine physical examination or for some other reason, reveal anemia or a high calcium level, or a high level of protein (or, less commonly, a low level of protein). A urine test may show protein in the urine.
What is the most important blood test for multiple myeloma?
Complete Blood Count (CBC) The CBC is both a basic test done during every medical check-up. It is one of the most important blood tests used for diagnosing and monitoring myeloma patients. The CBC quantifies all the cells that make up the solid parts of blood. The liquid part of blood that is colorless is called serum.
What markers indicate multiple myeloma?
Diagnosing Multiple Myeloma
- High blood calcium level.
- Poor kidney function.
- Low red blood cell counts (anemia)
- Holes in the bones from tumor found on imaging studies (CT, MRI, PET scan)
- Increase in one type of light chain in the blood so that one type is 100 times more common than the other.
What test monitors the course of multiple myeloma?
Protein and immunofixation electrophoresis. These tests are used to help diagnose and monitor multiple myeloma. Protein electrophoresis separates the proteins in a blood or urine sample into several groups based on their electrical charge and size.
Can multiple myeloma cause blood in urine?
Many affected individuals exhibit M-proteins in the urine and blood but have no other evidence of the symptoms of multiple myeloma such as anemia, bone lesions or kidney failure.
Can multiple myeloma affect the kidneys?
The tubules of the kidney can also be damaged simply due to the toxic effects of these filtered proteins. This can lead to abnormal kidney function even in the absence of cast formation. However, myeloma kidney is by far the most common manifestation of kidney disease in patients with multiple myeloma.
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 is the most definitive test for multiple myloma?
PET scan (positron emission tomography): Radiation is used to make 3-dimensional color images. This is a common test used to diagnose multiple myeloma. Your doctor will remove a piece of tissue or take a sample of cells from your body and check it in a lab under a microscope for signs of cancer.
What tests are used to check for multiple myeloma?
Blood tests. Laboratory analysis of your blood may reveal the M proteins produced by myeloma cells.
Can a blood test detect multiple myeloma?
Even at the smoldering stage, multiple myeloma can be detected with a blood test. If a person has SMM, the test will show that the cancer cells are producing a certain type of protein. Depending on test results, the doctor may order a bone marrow biopsy to check for malignant cells.