Essential Diagnostic Tests for Myeloma: Everything You Need to Know
There are over a 100 types of blood cancer that are currently recognized, each varying in severity, symptoms, and treatment outcomes. Multiple myeloma (MM) is a type of blood cancer that affects plasma cells, which are a vital part of the immune system. Plasma cells play a key role in producing antibodies to help the body fight infections.
However, in multiple myeloma, these plasma cells become cancerous and grow uncontrollably.
As a serious form of blood cancer, multiple myeloma can lead to severe health complications. Early detection of multiple myeloma is critical for managing the disease, and various diagnostic tests are used to monitor its progression and guide treatment.
This blog explores the multiple myeloma, and the most essential diagnostic tests use by healthcare providers.
Multiple Myeloma: What is it?
Multiple Myeloma is a type of blood cancer that affects the plasma cells. Plasma cells are blood cells that are essential in the body’s immune response. In multiple myeloma, the bone marrow becomes overpopulated with abnormal plasma cells, which lowers the production of healthy red blood cells. This abnormal cell growth impairs the body’s ability to produce effective antibodies, resulting in complications. Unlike melanoma, which develops when the pigment-producing cells in the skin, called melanocytes, become cancerous. Multiple myeloma may not require immediate treatment if it is slow-growing and asymptomatic.
What Are The Symptoms of Multiple Melanoma?
In the early stages of multiple myeloma, individuals may not exhibit any symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, several signs may emerge, including:
- Bone pain, particularly in the spine, chest, or hips.
- Nausea and constipation
- Loss of appetite
- Mental fogginess or confusion
- Fatigue and tiredness
- Increased susceptibility to infections
- Weight loss
- General weakness
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
What are the stages of Multiple Myeloma?
Multiple Myeloma usually progresses through 3 stages. They are numbered as I,II and III and are classified based on the number of Myeloma cells present in the body.
The Durie-Salmon staging system is the common system used to identify the progression of the disease. Stage classifications are based on the amount of haemoglobin, calcium, bone damage and M-protein found in the body.
Apart from this, multiple myeloma can also be classified based on the risk level of the condition.
What Are Multiple Myeloma Diagnostic Tests?
Here are some of the tests that can be used to confirm multiple myeloma diagnoses:
- Blood Tests: This test detects M proteins produced by myeloma cells and identifies beta-2-microglobulin, another protein associated with the condition. In addition, blood cell counts, calcium and uric acid levels, and kidney function are assessed by these blood tests.
- Bone Marrow Tests: Bone marrow tests are vital for confirming a diagnosis of multiple myeloma. These tests include bone marrow biopsies, which collect a tiny amount of solid tissue with the help of a needle, and bone marrow aspirations, which draw a sample of the liquid portion. These samples are taken from the hip bone, allowing a detailed assessment of the bone marrow for myeloma cells.
- Urine Tests: Tests on urine are particularly crucial in this diagnosis because they can detect M proteins, also known as Bence Jones proteins, in urine samples.
- Imaging Tests: These tests include X-rays, MRI scans, and CT scans helping to assess the extent of the disease and any associated complications.
Effective myeloma treatment requires early detection. Diagnostic tests like blood tests, bone marrow biopsies, urine tests, and imaging are crucial for identifying the disease and its severity. By combining early diagnosis with appropriate care, Individuals diagnosed with multiple myeloma can get the necessary treatment to manage their overall symptoms and enhance their quality of life.
Seek medical advice if an individual notices signs like tiredness, bone pain, or frequent infections
and schedule a test for multiple myeloma with Dr Lal Path Labs today!
FAQs
1. What is multiple myeloma cancer?
Multiple myeloma cancer is a form of cancer that targets plasma cells, which play a vital role in producing antibodies to combat infections. In this disease, abnormal plasma cells build up in the bone marrow, resulting in severe issues.
2. What tests are involved in multiple myeloma lab diagnosis?
Multiple myeloma lab diagnosis typically includes blood tests to detect M proteins, bone marrow tests to confirm the presence of myeloma cells, urine tests for Bence Jones proteins, and imaging tests to assess bone health and disease extent.
3. What is involved in the multiple myeloma diagnosis process?
The multiple myeloma diagnosis process involves a combination of clinical evaluation, lab tests, and imaging studies.
4. How does multiple myeloma affect the body?
Multiple myeloma can lead to serious health complications as the disease progresses. It can weaken bones, increase the risk of fractures, disrupt healthy blood cell production, and could result in kidney damage from the buildup of harmful proteins.
