Multiple Myeloma Testing, Staging and Prognosis

Multiple myeloma testing, staging, and prognosis​ can be a complex process involving various procedures. Learn more about the various kinds of tests, staging, and how health professionals determine a prognosis. 

Testing 

Health professionals use a range of tests throughout the course of multiple myeloma for:

• Initial diagnosis
• Determining the myeloma type
• Staging the disease
• Monitoring treatment response 

The following tests and procedures can help accurately assess a patient's condition:

Urine Tests

Myeloma cells produce M-proteins, which can be detected in urine. These M-proteins are called Bence Jones proteins, and their presence is a key indicator of light chain myeloma. 

Blood Tests

M-proteins can also show up in blood samples. Health care professionals can also measure beta-2-microglobulin, another protein that myeloma cells produce. Your health care professional can also conduct other blood tests to to assess for myeloma complications like anemia, kidney complications, or hypercalcemia.

Bone Marrow Tests

Bone marrow examination is crucial for diagnosing multiple myeloma. A bone marrow biopsy and fluid sample are performed to determine the presence and extent of myeloma cells in the bone marrow. These tests help confirm a diagnosis and assess the disease's extent. 

Imaging Tests

Health professionals can use various imaging tests to determine the impact of myeloma on the skeletal system. These tests may include: 

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans
• X-rays
• Computed tomography (CT) scans
• Positron emission tomography (PET) scans

How Is Staging Done in Multiple Myeloma​?

Staging of myeloma determines the disease's progression rate and helps guide treatment decisions. There are various myeloma staging systems, including the Durie-Salmon Staging System and the Revised International Staging System (R-ISS). The R-ISS is widely used in clinical trials and practice. It incorporates prognostic factors to categorize patients into risk groups. However, it doesn't use simple stages one, two, and three but rather provides a risk stratification based on a score. Higher scores indicate a more aggressive disease. 

Multiple Myeloma Prognosis

To determine a multiple myeloma prognosis​ a health care professional will consider the amount of myeloma cells and the specific properties of these cells. The properties that a doctor should consider include: 

• The growth rate of myeloma cells
• The production rate of monoclonal antibody proteins
• Cytokine production to enable communication between immune cells
• The production of chemicals that damage or significantly impair other tissues, organs, or bodily functions

Find Out More About Multiple Myeloma

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