Diagnosing Multiple Myeloma

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Diagnosis is based on:

• X-rays to check for any damage to bones
• Blood and urine tests to check for high levels of antibody proteins
• Bone marrow aspiration or biopsy -removal of a sample of bone marrow tissue to test for myeloma cells

In addition, other blood and urine tests will be ordered to assess the various conditions associated with multiple myeloma including:

• Anemia
• Low levels of other blood cells (white blood cells and platelets)
• Elevated calcium levels (blood and urine)
• Evidence of kidney damage and bone destruction