Blood Test for Multiple Myeloma

How it Works

What is Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that forms in plasma cells, a type of white blood cell. Plasma cells produce antibodies that help the body fight infections.  In people with multiple myeloma, cancerous plasma cells build up in bone marrow and crowd out healthy cells.  The loss of healthy cells can cause anemia, weakened bones, damage to the kidneys and other organs, and a weakened immune system. Common symptoms of multiple myeloma include:

• Bone pain
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Mental fogginess or confusion
• Fatigue and tiredness
• Increase infections
• Unexplained weight loss
• Unusual thirst
• Frequent urination

Many cases of multiple myeloma are slow to develop.  Cases that don't cause symptoms should be monitored but often require no immediate action.

How do you test for Multiple Myeloma?

Specific testing for multiple myeloma is not typically done unless someone is experiencing symptoms or has a family history of the disease.  Irregular results on common blood tests may raise red flags that lead to a diagnosis.  Blood screening can also help to differentiate multiple myeloma from other conditions that cause similar symptoms.  Common  tests that are related to multiple myeloma include:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): A low red blood cell count can be a sign of multiple myeloma.
• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP): irregular levels of calcium, creatinine, and albumin can all be related to multiple myeloma.
• Electrophoresis: A blood or urine protein electrophoresis test can detect irregular proteins related to multiple myeloma.
• Immunoglobulins: Cases of multiple myeloma may cause one type of immunoglobulin (antibody) to be abnormally high, while other types are unusually low.
• Beta 2 Microglobulin:  B2 is a type of protein produced by myeloma cells.  Measuring these levels can help identify multiple myeloma and assess how far it has progressed.

These tests can be a good place to start.  However, more specialized testing will be necessary for a doctor to make a final diagnosis.

Where can I get lab tests for Multiple Myeloma?

Request A Test is a nationwide company that empowers you to order the lab testing you need.  There is no need to get a doctor's prescription or get approval from an insurance provider.  Just order from our menu of hundreds of testing options.  Then go to one of the thousands of labs we work with across the US.  Most tests see results in just a few days so you can get the answers you need fast.  If you need help placing an order or choosing the tests that best suit your needs, our team is ready to help.  Visit us online at Requestatest.com or call 888-732-2348 to get started.

Why Choose Us?

• Since 2002, we have a proven track record of offering excellent customer service, affordable pricing with no hidden fees, and our enduring commitment to protect your personal information.
• No doctor's order? (No problem!) Our national physician network provides the required doctor's order for the lab. Insurance is not needed to order lab testing nor will your insurance company be billed.
• We are partnered with two of the largest CLIA certified labs in the US, to offer you the latest lab testing technology with prompt and accurate results. (These are the same labs used by hospitals and physicians.)
• With over 3,600 lab locations to choose from and same-day collection, we make lab testing quick and convenient. No appointment is needed. Find your local lab with our location finder.
• We offer an extensive and detailed test menu. Ordering can be done online or over the phone. Not finding a test? Simply give us a call.  

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