Multiple myeloma: diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up with an oncologist
For a long time, the symptoms of the disease are nonspecific—fatigue, back pain, anemia—which is why multiple myeloma is often not immediately detected.
Oncologists at K+31 conduct a complete examination and explain each step to the patient. Below is an overview of this disease, its symptoms, and the benefits of modern treatment for multiple myeloma.
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Symptoms of multiple myeloma
Manifestations are varied and involve bone, blood, and kidney damage. In the early stages, the symptoms of multiple myeloma can be subtle, making timely treatment difficult.
Bone pain
One of the most common and early signs is pain:
- In the spine
- Ribs
- Pelvic bones
They intensify with movement and are associated with bone destruction.
Anemia and weakness
Due to the suppression of normal hematopoiesis, hemoglobin levels decrease. Anemia, pallor, shortness of breath during exertion, and constant fatigue develop.
Frequent Infections
The abnormal protein fails to perform its protective functions, and the immune system weakens. As a result, colds, pneumonia, and other infections become more frequent.
Impaired kidney function
Excess protein overloads and damages the kidneys. Kidney failure develops, sometimes detected before the disease itself.
Other possible signs of the disease
Less obvious complaints complete the picture. These include:
- Increased thirst and signs of high calcium in the blood
- Weight loss
- Numbness or weakness in the limbs
- Increased bleeding
Each symptom individually is nonspecific, but their combination warrants a doctor's attention.
When should you see an oncologist?
It's important not to miss the moment when an examination is truly necessary. This applies to both initial complaints and situations with an existing diagnosis.
Symptoms requiring examination
There are complaints that should not be ignored. It's worth making an appointment with an oncologist for myeloma in the following cases:
- Constant bone pain
- Unexplained weakness
- Frequent infections
- Decreased hemoglobin levels
- Impaired kidney function
- Changes in blood tests of unknown origin
This combination of symptoms is a direct indication for an examination, even if your general health is tolerable.
Second opinion after a diagnosis
Sometimes a patient comes in with a completed diagnosis. We re-evaluate the data and, if necessary, adjust the plan, as the treatment plan for multiple myeloma depends on many details.
Diagnosis of multiple myeloma
The examination combines lab tests, bone marrow examination, and imaging. At our center, multiple myeloma diagnosis is performed in stages:
- Oncologist consultation and examination
- Blood lab tests
- Monoclonal protein testing in the blood and urine
- Bone marrow puncture and examination
- Radiation methods and staging
The sequence helps confirm the diagnosis and understand how widespread the process is.
Oncologist consultation
The first step is a consultation and examination. The doctor analyzes your complaints and previous test results, then outlines the necessary scope of testing.
Laboratory research
A complete blood count and biochemical blood test reveal anemia, calcium and protein levels, and kidney function. These findings guide further diagnostics.
Blood and urine protein testing
Searching for abnormal proteins is especially important. Bence Jones protein is detected in urine, and a monoclonal component characteristic of myeloma is detected in blood.
Bone marrow puncture and examination
The key method is bone marrow sampling. A puncture and subsequent analysis of the material reveals excess plasma cells and definitively confirms the diagnosis.
Radiological diagnostic methods
Bone imaging is used to evaluate bone. CT, MRI, and, if necessary, PET/CT scans show lesions and tumor activity.
Disease stage assessment
Based on the examination results, the stage is determined. The intensity of future treatment and prognosis depend on this stage and the stage of the disease.
To clearly illustrate which method reveals what exactly, we provide a summary table.
| Method | What it detects | When it is used |
|---|---|---|
| Blood tests | Anemia, protein and calcium levels | Primary diagnosis |
| Urine tests | Bence Jones protein | Myeloma confirmation |
| Bone marrow | Plasma cells | Final diagnosis |
| CT | Bone lesions | Staging |
| MRI | Bone lesions | Detailed imaging |
| PET/CT | Activity of the process | Treatment monitoring |
This combination of methods provides a complete picture and helps choose the right strategy.
"In our practice, early diagnosis of multiple myeloma allows us to more quickly select effective therapy and prevent complications. Therefore, if you have suspicious symptoms, it is important not to delay a consultation with an oncologist and undergo a comprehensive examination,"
— oncologist.
General information
Modern methods of treating multiple myeloma
Today, in many cases the disease can be brought into a controlled state. Our oncologists develop an individual plan, and modern myeloma treatment combines several areas.
Drug therapy
The basis is drugs that suppress the growth of plasma cells. They are prescribed in courses and are often combined to enhance the effect.
Targeted treatment
A separate area is drugs that affect specific tumor mechanisms. Targeted therapy increases effectiveness and is included in modern regimens according to indications.
Immunotherapy
Agents that help the immune system recognize tumor cells are actively used. Immunotherapy has expanded the options for care, especially for relapses.
Maintenance therapy
It is important not only to influence the tumor. It is also important to alleviate the condition. Maintenance treatment includes several areas:
- Pain relief and bone strengthening
- Correction of anemia
- Infection prevention
- Protection of kidney function
These measures improve well-being and allow the patient to more easily tolerate the main therapy.
Control of complications
Complications from bones and kidneys require special attention. Their timely correction reduces risks and maintains quality of life.
Answers to frequently asked questions
We've compiled the most frequently asked questions from patients. The answers are general and do not replace an in-person consultation.
What is multiple myeloma?
What symptoms may indicate the disease?
What tests are needed to confirm the diagnosis?
Is it possible to control multiple myeloma?
Clinical guidelines of the Russian Ministry of Health. Multiple Myeloma — https://cr.minzdrav.gov.ru/
Clinical Guidelines Index of the Russian Ministry of Health — https://cr.minzdrav.gov.ru/
Scientific Electronic Library eLIBRARY — https://www.elibrary.ru
CyberLeninka (scientific articles on oncohematology) — https://cyberleninka.ru
Russian Society of Oncohematologists — https://raht.org
National Hematology Society — https://npngo.ru
National Medical Research Center of Hematology of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation — https://blood.ru
Russian Society of Clinical Oncology (RUSSCO) — https://rosoncoweb.ru
RLS Handbook: Materials on Oncohematology — https://www.rlsnet.ru
Russian Medical Encyclopedia and specialized publications on hematological diseases — https://www.mediasphera.ru
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What is multiple myeloma?
This is a malignant disease of the blood system in which plasma cells multiply uncontrollably in the bone marrow. Its other name is plasma cell myeloma, and due to damage to the hematopoietic tissue, the disease is sometimes called bone marrow cancer.
How the disease develops
The altered plasma cells displace healthy ones and produce a monoclonal protein. It accumulates in the blood and urine, damages the kidneys and bones, which is why the first complaints appear.
Why plasma cell myeloma occurs
It is impossible to name the exact reason. It is based on genetic damage in the plasma cell, and not on lifestyle or infection, so it is impossible to predict the disease in advance.
Risk factors
Certain circumstances increase the likelihood of illness. Age over 60 years, male gender, the presence of a pre-existing condition - monoclonal gammopathy, as well as exposure to a number of harmful substances are important.