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What's the complete workup for multiple myeloma?

User Pa
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Final answer:

The complete workup for multiple myeloma includes full blood count, renal function tests, hypercalcemia assessment, Immunoelectrophoresis, detection of Bence Jones proteinuria, and possibly MRI scans and bone marrow biopsies.

Step-by-step explanation:

The complete workup for multiple myeloma involves several diagnostic tests and procedures. Initial blood tests are critical, including a full blood count to check for abnormalities, tests for renal function, and assessments for high blood calcium levels or hypercalcemia. A key component of this workup is the Immunoelectrophoresis (IEP), which is highly useful in diagnosing multiple myeloma due to its ability to detect abnormal antibodies or monoclonal proteins (M proteins). IEP reveals a distinct band in the gamma globulin region on a protein electrophoresis gel and can show a sharp spike in M protein levels on the densitometer scan. Bence Jones proteinuria is another marker, where patients with myeloma may excrete abnormal light chains of immunoglobulins in their urine. Besides these tests, MRI scans may be ordered, and bone marrow biopsies might be conducted to assess the extent of bone marrow involvement by the myeloma cells.

User Jsanmarb
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