Multiple Myeloma: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow. It often shows up as bone pain, fatigue from low blood counts, frequent infections, or kidney trouble. Some people first notice a broken bone after a minor fall. If any of that sounds familiar, you should push for the right tests — early diagnosis changes treatment options.

Diagnosis and tests

Doctors use a mix of blood, urine, imaging, and a bone marrow biopsy to confirm myeloma. Expect tests like CBC, serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP), immunofixation, free light chain assay, and urine protein checks. Imaging often starts with X-rays and can include MRI, CT, or PET-CT to find bone lesions. A bone marrow biopsy shows how many plasma cells are present and helps guide treatment choices.

These tests also show disease activity and organ impact — for example, high calcium or worsening kidney function changes how urgently treatment should start. Keep copies of your lab results; they make follow-up visits faster and clearer.

Treatment options and supportive care

Treatment depends on age, kidney function, symptoms, and how aggressive the disease looks. Common drugs include proteasome inhibitors (like bortezomib), immunomodulatory agents (lenalidomide), monoclonal antibodies (daratumumab), steroids (dexamethasone), and chemotherapy when needed. Many patients get a transplant (autologous stem cell transplant) if they’re a fit candidate — it’s not for everyone but can extend remission times.

Supportive care matters as much as anti-cancer drugs. Bisphosphonates such as pamidronate (Aredia) or zoledronic acid help protect bones and reduce fracture risk. Your care team will also focus on infection prevention, anemia treatment, pain control, and protecting kidney function. We have a step-by-step guide on Aredia and safe online sources if you need more info about that medication.

Side effects vary by drug. Ask about blood count drops, nerve symptoms (from some chemo), infection risk, and how to handle side effects at home. Get clear instructions on when to call your clinic — fevers, sudden shortness of breath, or new severe pain are red flags.

Consider clinical trials if standard options are limited. Trials can offer newer targeted drugs or combinations. Also look into support groups, financial counseling, and palliative care — these services help with daily life and treatment costs.

When you see your doctor, bring questions: What are the treatment goals? Is transplant an option? What side effects should I expect? Are there trials I qualify for? Who manages bone health and infections? Simple, specific questions give you control and lead to better care.

If you want reliable articles and practical how-tos about medications used in myeloma, search this site for posts on Aredia, bone protection, and safe ways to get prescriptions. Stay organized, ask direct questions, and get a treatment plan that fits your life.