Diagnosis: Multiple Myeloma

If your doctor suspects that you might have multiple myeloma cancer, he or she may refer you to a “hemotologist,” a physician who specializes in treating blood cancer. Diagnostic tests and procedures may include the following:

• Physical Examination: The first step toward reaching a diagnosis is typically a physical examination, where your doctor will look for signs of disease. Your doctor may palpitate your abdomen for signs of an enlarged liver or spleen. Your doctor may also ask you about numbness or muscle weakness and note whether your skin is uncommonly pale.



• Complete Blood Count (CBC): A sample of blood is drawn from a vein and analyzed for the following:



• number of red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), and platelets
• amount of hemoglobin (the protein that carries oxygen) (HGB) in the red blood cells
• portion of the sample made up of red blood cells (HCT)
• appearance of blood cells under the microscope


• Blood chemistry studies: In addition to the CBC, a blood sample may be analyzed to measure the amounts of certain substances released into the blood by the organs and tissues of the body. A higher amount than normal of a particular substance can be a sign of disease in the organ that produces it. Your blood may be analyzed to look for the presence or elevation of an M-protein, which is a type of protein found in the blood of most patients with multiple myeloma. Your blood may also be checked for signs of abnormal kidney function.



• Urinalysis: A sample of your urine will also be analyzed to check for proteins.



• X-ray: X-rays of the skull, spine, pelvis, legs, and arms may be taken to look for signs of lesions on the bones, fractures, and/or the thinning of the bones.



• CT scans and MRIs: A CT scan or MRI may be taken to look for signs of bone lesions, especially if the patient is experiencing skeletal pain.



• Bone marrow biopsy: A biopsy of the bone marrow is typically necessary to confirm a diagnosis. A bone marrow biopsy involves the removal of a tiny piece of bone and bone marrow. The bone and bone marrow samples are usually taken by inserting a hollow needle into the hipbone or breastbone. The samples are then viewed under a microscope to look for abnormal cells.

This Web site is sponsored by the law firm of Baron & Budd, P.C. Please understand that the information provided is not medical advice, but is simply offered as a resource to help you learn about multiple myeloma and benzene. Please discuss your health-related questions and concerns with your doctor.

Benzene can cause multiple myeloma and other blood cancers and disorders. If you have been diagnosed with multiple myeloma cancer and would like information about your legal rights, please call us at 800-946-9646 or e-mail us at

Please also visit our glossary for helpful definitions of medical terms relating to the diagnosis and treatment of multiple myeloma.