When a patient has multiple myeloma their plasma cells reproduce uncontrollably. As a result the plasma cells crowd out other types of blood cells that are essential to be healthy such as red blood cells or platelets, weakening the immune system. Also, too much monoclonal protein (M-protein) is produced. High levels of M-protein levels are a key indicator of multiple myeloma.
The first line diagnosis for multiple myeloma is identifying an excess of M-protein in the blood and elevated levels of plasma cells in the bone marrow with a blood test.
When a patient has multiple myeloma their plasma cells reproduce uncontrollably. As a result the plasma cells crowd out other types of blood cells that are essential to be healthy such as red blood cells or platelets, weakening the immune system. Also, too much monoclonal protein (M-protein) is produced. High levels of M-protein levels are a key indicator of multiple myeloma.