Multiple Myeloma Diagnosis & Treatment

what is multiple myeloma diagram - wvci

What is Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple myeloma begins when a plasma cell becomes abnormal. The abnormal cell divides to make copies of itself. The new cells divide again and again, making more and more abnormal cells. These abnormal plasma cells are called myeloma cells.

In time, myeloma cells collect in the bone marrow. They may damage the solid part of the bone. When myeloma cells collect in several of your bones, the disease is called multiple myeloma. This disease may also harm other tissues and organs, such as the kidneys.

Myeloma cells make antibodies called M proteins and other proteins. These proteins can collect in the blood, urine, and organs.

Newly Diagnosed Myeloma Patient with doctor - wvci

A Guide for Newly Diagnosed Myeloma Patients

Our multiple myeloma cancer specialists, called hematologists, have put together a guide that we hope will help you prepare for your first visit. 

View Guide Now

Multiple Myeloma
Symptoms & Diagnosis

Doctors sometimes find multiple myeloma after a routine blood test. More often, doctors suspect multiple myeloma after an X-ray for a broken bone. Usually, though, patients go to the doctor because they are having other symptoms.

To find out whether such problems are from multiple myeloma or some other condition, your doctor may ask about your personal and family medical history and do a physical exam. Your doctor also may order some additional tests, such as blood or urine tests, x-rays, or a biopsy.

Learn About Symptoms

Multiple Myeloma Staging

If the bone marrow biopsy or other tests show that you have multiple myeloma, your doctor needs to learn the extent (stage) of the disease to plan the best treatment. The stage takes into account whether the cancer is causing problems with your bones or kidneys. Staging may involve having more tests:

  • Blood tests – For staging, the doctor considers the results of blood tests, including albumin and beta-2-microglobulin.
  • CT scan – An X-ray machine linked to a computer takes a series of detailed pictures of your bones.
  • MRI – A powerful magnet linked to a computer is used to make detailed pictures of your bones.
Learn More About Staging

Multiple Myeloma Treatment Options

There are a few different approaches to treating multiple myeloma depending on the stage. Treatments can include active surveillance, induction therapy, bone marrow transplant or a combination of several treatments. The right treatment plan for each patient depends on whether the cancer has progressed to other areas of the body.
 
Learn More About Multiple Myeloma Treatments

Multiple Myeloma Specialists at Willamette Valley Cancer

Corvallis

Christopher Yasenchak, MD - Lab Director

Christopher Yasenchak, MD - Lab Director

Eugene

Jeff Sharman, MD

Jeff Sharman, MD

Christopher Yasenchak, MD - Lab Director

Christopher Yasenchak, MD - Lab Director

Multiple Myeloma Cancer Care in the Willamette Valley

When you’re ready, click the button to make an appointment with one of our multiple myeloma cancer doctors at WVCI. Our teams in Corvallis, Eugene, Florence, and Lincoln City are ready to talk to you about your myeloma cancer and personalized treatment options. We know how important it is for you to receive good information and choose the treatment that’s best for you. We’re here to answer your questions and help you every step of the way.

Request an Appointment with a Cancer Doctor