Multiple Myeloma Staging
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Multiple Myeloma Staging
Lab tests can help doctors diagnose multiple myeloma. Changes in calcium levels and the presence of abnormal antibody proteins can be detected by blood or urine tests. X-rays and bone biopsies may also be used to confirm the diagnosis. This information may also be useful for the multiple myeloma staging process, which is a way of summarizing the development of the cancer.
There are currently two ways of staging multiple myeloma, both of which divide myeloma into three stages indicated by Roman numerals I-III. The two systems used to stage multiple myeloma are the Durie-Salmon system and the International Staging System for Multiple Myeloma.
The Durie-Salmon system is becoming less common since the development of the International Staging System for Multiple Myeloma. These two systems differ in the factors that are evaluated.
The Durie-Salmon System considers the levels of monoclonal immunoglobulin, calcium and hemoglobin in the blood as well as the number of bone lesions (indicating the severity of bone damage). The International Staging System for Multiple Myeloma relies on two main factors to stage multiple myeloma: the level of albumin and beta-2-microglobulin in the blood.
Stage Grouping for Multiple Myeloma
In either case, the staging systems are a way to determine the extent of myeloma in the body. A stage I diagnosis is less severe, whereas the most advanced form of multiple myeloma is stage III.
- Stage I Multiple Myeloma: The tests indicate there are a relatively small number of myeloma cells. The levels of beta-2 microglobulin may be slightly higher than normal and the levels of albumin (a water soluble protein) may have decreased.
- Stage II Multiple Myeloma: This intermediate stage is determined if the levels tested fall between the standards set for stage I and stage III.
- Stage III Multiple Myeloma: The number of myeloma cells is considered high. The most advanced stage of multiple myeloma is characterized by high levels of beta-2 microglobulin and low levels of albumin.
Understanding Multiple Myeloma Staging
The multiple myeloma staging process will help you and your doctors determine your treatment options. The rate the cancer is growing and whether or not there is evidence of kidney problems or other serious symptoms may influence treatment choices.
Your personalized care team at Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) will work hard to make sure that you and your loved ones are well-informed regarding the treatment process and symptom management of multiple myeloma.
Treatment Options for Multiple Myeloma at CTCA
At Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA), we believe in patient-centered multiple myeloma treatment. That is why treatment at CTCA is guided by your preferences and needs. Our cancer experts provide a variety of conventional and complementary therapies to help you fight multiple myeloma and improve the quality of your well-being before, during and after treatment.
When you're ready to learn more, call 1-800-615-3055 or Chat Now to talk with one of our Oncology Information Specialists. Our representatives are available 24 hours a day, every day of the week. We're ready to help, at any stage.
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