How does anemia typically show up in bloodwork for patients with multiple myeloma?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Anemia is one of the most common signs of multiple myeloma, affecting up to 75% of patients at diagnosis. It typically appears as a low red blood cell count (low hemoglobin) along with visible changes in the shape and size of red blood cells on a blood smear. These abnormalities—often described as normocytic, normochromic anemia with rouleaux formation (red blood cells stacked like coins)—can be detected through a routine complete blood count (CBC) and peripheral blood smear.

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Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn if anemia suggests multiple myeloma Discover what your bloodwork may indicate Find out if symptoms need urgent care See OTC options for anemia symptoms Find a hematologist for blood disorders Understand medically valid home remedies for anemia Check if fatigue points to multiple myeloma

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Explanation

Anemia is common in patients with multiple myeloma and can be detected through blood tests. These tests usually show a low number of red blood cells. If you're experiencing symptoms that concern you, consider using Ubie's free AI symptom checker to help identify potential health issues and determine if you should seek medical attention.

Red Blood Cell Changes

Shape and Size: The red blood cells may have unusual shapes and sizes. This is known as red blood cell morphology.

Causes of Anemia

Iron, Vitamin B12, and Folate Deficiency: Low levels of these nutrients can cause anemia. Tests can check for these deficiencies to help understand why anemia occurs.

Hemogram Insights

A hemogram is a detailed blood test that gives important information about blood cells. It can help identify anemia by showing low red blood cell counts and changes in their appearance.

In summary, anemia in multiple myeloma is often seen in blood tests as low red blood cell counts and changes in the cells' shapes and sizes. Testing for nutrient deficiencies can also provide clues about the causes of anemia.

(References)

Ford J. (2013). Red blood cell morphology. International journal of laboratory hematology, 23480230.
Higgins C. (1995). Deficiency testing for iron, vitamin B12 and folate. Nursing times, 7603852.
Celkan TT. (2020). What does a hemogram say to us?. Turk pediatri arsivi, 32684755.

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