How is multiple myeloma typically diagnosed?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Multiple myeloma is typically diagnosed through a combination of blood tests, urine tests, and a bone marrow biopsy. Blood and urine tests detect abnormal proteins (M proteins) produced by cancerous plasma cells, while a bone marrow biopsy confirms the presence of malignant cells. Imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may also be used to assess bone damage.

If you're noticing symptoms like unexplained fatigue, bone pain, or frequent infections, it's important not to guess or delay. A quick, private, and free symptom check can help you understand what your symptoms may mean and guide your next steps—whether that's seeing a specialist or asking your doctor the right questions. Early clarity leads to earlier answers, and when it comes to conditions like multiple myeloma, timing matters.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn if symptoms suggest multiple myeloma Discover likely causes of your symptoms Understand whether these signs need urgent care Find OTC options for symptom relief See a doctor for multiple myeloma concerns Find home remedies for related symptoms Check if it could be multiple myeloma

Not seeing your question? No worries.

Submit your own Question

Explanation

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow. To diagnose it, doctors use several tests:

Blood Tests: These tests check for abnormal levels of proteins and calcium, which can indicate myeloma. They also look for anemia, which is common in myeloma patients.
Urine Tests: These tests detect specific proteins, called Bence Jones proteins, that may be present in the urine of people with multiple myeloma.
Bone Marrow Biopsy: This involves taking a small sample of bone marrow, usually from the hip bone, to see if there are cancerous plasma cells.
Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans can help find bone damage or tumors caused by myeloma.

Doctors combine the results of these tests to confirm a diagnosis of multiple myeloma. Each test provides important information about how the disease is affecting the body, helping doctors decide on the best treatment plan. If you're experiencing unexplained symptoms like bone pain, fatigue, or frequent infections, you can check your symptoms to better understand what might be causing them before speaking with a healthcare provider.

(References)

Michels TC, & Petersen KE. (2017). Multiple Myeloma: Diagnosis and Treatment. American family physician, 28318212.
Nau KC, & Lewis WD. (2008). Multiple myeloma: diagnosis and treatment. American family physician, 18841734.
Rajabto W, & Priantono D. (2022). How to Diagnose, Treat, and Monitor Treatment Response .... Acta medica Indonesiana, 36156469.

Thinking about asking ChatGPT?Ask me instead

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Was this page helpful?

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.