Multiple Myeloma Testing and Diagnosis

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In order to diagnose a patient with multiple myeloma, a physician will typically order several different tests. That’s because multiple myeloma is a complex disease and knowing the results of these different tests can help a physician better understand if you have the disease, and if so, what is likely happening. 

Test results can also allow your physician to know what stage the disease is at, what organs may be affected and what type of medications and treatments will likely work best for you.

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Confirming Your Multiple Myeloma Diagnosis

As part of the initial consultation, patients may have additional labs, imaging and pathology re-read by Fred Hutch to confirm their diagnosis.

Types of Tests for Multiple Myeloma

It is common to have blood and urine tests, as well as a bone marrow biopsy, when diagnosing multiple myeloma. Imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans and MRIs are often needed as well. The results of these tests provide different, important information. 

Blood Tests

Blood tests can reveal abnormal proteins in the blood and other signs that the disease may be affecting the body. Blood tests can also give information about problems with blood cell counts, kidney function and calcium levels, which are often impacted by myeloma. Blood testing is important because it helps a physician better understand the disease and manage it more effectively.

Learn More about Blood Testing for Multiple Myeloma

Bone Marrow Biopsy

To test for multiple myeloma, a bone marrow sample (biopsy) will be aspirated (drawn out) from your hip bone, even though the cancer may be affecting other areas of your body. Since multiple myeloma usually spreads throughout the bone marrow, a sample from the hip generally provides the necessary information for diagnosis and evaluation. 

Learn More about Bone Marrow Biopsy for Multiple Myeloma

Imaging Tests

Tests like X-rays, CT scans and PET scans allow physicians to see bones and tissues so they can better understand how they may have been damaged. 

Urine Tests

Tests can reveal if there is a myeloma protein in your urine, as well as provide information about your kidney function. Your physician will likely have you provide a sample of urine that has been collected over a 24-hour period. You will be given instructions on how to do this.