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CancerQuest > Introduction to Patient Information > Introduction to Cancer by Type > Multiple Myeloma: Introduction > Multiple Myeloma: Detection and Diagnosis

Multiple Myeloma: Detection and Diagnosis

Multiple myeloma results in the overproduction of antibodies by B cells in the tumors. The antibodies can be detected in samples of blood or urine from the patient. Another protein present on the surface of B cells (beta2-microglobulin) is frequently elevated in multiple myeloma. Multiple myeloma may also be detected by bone marrow biopsies.⁽¹⁾

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommends PET and CT scans. CT scan may detect alterations and damage to bone structures. Whole-body MRI is another option. MRI images provide valuable information and may allow for greater accuracy in diagnosis.⁽¹⁾

Multiple myeloma is commonly found in the vertebrae, skull, pelvic bones, ribs, humerus, and femur. Dentists may help identify the disease if it affects the jaw region of the skull.

Gene expression profiling is under investigation as a way of categorizing multiple myeloma cases. Expression profiling is a way to categorize the cancer cells based on their biologic properties. Profiling and molecular markers are increasingly important and common tools to guide treatment decisions.⁽²⁾⁽³⁾

Learn more about cancer detection methods. Methods covered include PET, CT and MRI.

References for this page:

1. Schmidt GP, Schoenberg SO, Reiser MF, Baur-Melnyk A. "Whole-body MR imaging of bone marrow." Eur J Radiol (2005 Jul);55(1):33-40. [PUBMED]
2. Henry T. and R. Fonseca. "Genomics and proteomics in multiple myeloma and Waldenström macroglobulinemia." Curr Opin Hematol. 2007 Jul;14(4):369-74 [PUBMED]
3. PL Bergsagel. "Individualizing therapy using molecular markers in multiple myeloma." (2007) Clin Lymphoma Myeloma. Apr;7 Suppl 4:S170-4. [PUBMED]