Usually, after you meet with your doctor for the first time to discuss the possibility of having multiple myeloma (MM), the next step is going through a series of tests. But, what tests can you expect? Read on to find out.
1. Blood tests
Blood tests reveal so much. When it comes to multiple myeloma, doctors look for M proteins, as well as another abnormal protein called beta-2-microglobulin. Measurement of free kappa and free lambda light chains also plays a key role in diagnosis. These tests give doctors a better idea of how aggressive the cancer is.
2. Urine tests
Urine tests also reveal M proteins; however, when M proteins are detected in urine, they’re called Bence Jones proteins.
3. Bone marrow samples
Your doctor may need to take a sample of your bone marrow for testing. While many folks say the process is painful…
…, it’s necessary because the sample will then be analyzed for myeloma cells.
4. Imaging tests
According to the American Cancer Society, Imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRIs and CTs are used to detect bone problems that are often associated with multiple myeloma.
Though there’s no cure for multiple myeloma, if you tested positive for any of the above tests, with good treatment results, you can usually return to near-normal activity.
Standard treatment options include:
Targeted therapy. Targeted drug treatment focuses on specific abnormalities within cancer cells that allow them to survive. Bortezomib (Velcade) and carfilzomib (Kyprolis) are targeted drugs that block the action of a substance in myeloma cells that breaks down proteins. This action causes myeloma cells to die. Both medications are administered through a vein in your arm.
Biological therapy. Biological therapy drugs use your body’s immune system to fight myeloma cells. The drugs thalidomide (Thalomid), lenalidomide (Revlimid) and pomalidomide (Pomalyst) enhance the immune system cells that identify and attack cancer cells. These medications are taken in pill form.
Chemotherapy. Chemotherapy drugs kill fast-growing cells, including myeloma cells. Chemotherapy drugs can be given through a vein in your arm or taken in pill form. High doses of chemotherapy drugs are used before a stem cell transplant.
Corticosteroids. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone and dexamethasone, regulate the immune system to control inflammation in the body. They also are active against myeloma cells. Corticosteroids can be taken in pill form or administered through a vein in your arm.
Stem cell transplantation. A stem cell transplant is a procedure to replace your diseased bone marrow with healthy bone marrow.
Before a stem cell transplant, blood-forming stem cells are collected from your blood. You then receive high doses of chemotherapy to destroy your diseased bone marrow. Then your stem cells are infused into your body, where they travel to your bones and begin rebuilding your bone marrow.
Radiation therapy. This treatment uses beams of energy, such as X-rays, to damage myeloma cells and stop their growth. Radiation therapy may be used to quickly shrink myeloma cells in a specific area — for instance, when a collection of abnormal plasma cells form a tumor (plasmacytoma) that’s causing pain or destroying a bone.
Reviewed by: Dr. Melvin Gaskins
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