Myeloma is usually diagnosed when blood and urine tests find paraprotein, and bone marrow tests show an increased number of plasma cells. X-rays and sometimes other imaging scans are used to check for signs of myeloma in your bones.
The test results help your doctor work out the type of myeloma you have and the best treatment plan for you.
Many people feel shocked and upset when told they have myeloma. If you need support, call Cancer Council 13 11 20.
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Dr Jane Estell, Senior Staff Specialist, Haematology Department, Concord Cancer Centre, and Senior Clinical Lecturer, The University of Sydney; Brenda Clasquin, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council NSW; Jacqui Keogh, Senior Myeloma Support Nurse, Myeloma Australia; Dr Silvia Ling, Haematologist, Liverpool Hospital and Sydney Adventist Hospital; and John Miller, Consumer.
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