A myeloma profile is a group of blood tests that are often done together to help diagnose and monitor multiple myeloma. Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer affecting bone marrow plasma cells. A
A myeloma profile is a group of blood tests that are often done together to help diagnose and monitor multiple myeloma. Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer affecting bone marrow plasma cells. A myeloma profile test provides key laboratory information needed for diagnosis, prognosis and ongoing monitoring of multiple myeloma. Tracking the profile over time is crucial for optimal patient management.
Overview of the Myeloma Profile Test
The myeloma profile is a group of lab tests that are used together to help diagnose, determine prognosis, and monitor multiple myeloma. The tests check for abnormal proteins and other markers that are produced by myeloma cells. The main components of the myeloma profile test include serum protein electrophoresis, serum free light chains, complete blood count, calcium, creatinine, and beta-2 microglobulin.
Serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) measures abnormal monoclonal proteins produced by the myeloma cells, known as M proteins. Finding an M protein spike on SPEP is a key diagnostic indicator of multiple myeloma. The serum-free light chain test quantifies the level of kappa and lambda light chains, which are also produced excessively by myeloma cells. High levels denote more active disease. The complete blood count evaluates for anaemia and other blood cell abnormalities commonly seen in myeloma. The calcium test checks for high levels of calcium in the blood, which can be caused by myeloma bone lesions. Creatinine assesses kidney function, which is often impaired in myeloma due to toxic effects on the kidneys. Beta-2 microglobulin provides an indication of overall myeloma tumour burden. High levels correlate with more advanced-stage disease.
The myeloma test is initially performed at diagnosis to confirm multiple myeloma and establish a baseline status. After treatment is initiated, the profile is then repeated every 2-3 months to monitor the disease course and test the efficacy of treatment. Trends in the results over successive testing are crucial for optimal patient management. An increasing M protein level, rising light chains, or new abnormalities would indicate disease progression, warranting a change in therapy.
When is the Myeloma Profile Test prescribed?
The myeloma profile test is commonly prescribed at diagnosis to confirm multiple myeloma by detecting abnormalities like M protein and elevated light chains. It establishes a baseline to compare future results against. Before starting treatment, it assesses disease severity to guide therapy choices and provides a baseline to monitor treatment response. During active treatment, the profile is repeated every 2-3 months to closely track if the myeloma is responding or progressing. At treatment completion, it helps determine if measurable disease has been eliminated, indicating remission. During follow-up, periodic profiling checks for relapse signs like rising M protein. With any concerning symptoms during/after treatment, repeat profiling looks for progression. Before stem cell transplant, it evaluates if the disease state is appropriate to proceed and gives a new post-transplant baseline.
Time Required for Test Report + Next Steps
One can search results for “myeloma profile test near me” on the browser to find the best lab. Max Lab offers an at-home sample collection of a myeloma profile test at a cost-effective price. After the sample collection for myeloma profile test the time required to receive results is typically 7-10 business days. The normal range for a myeloma profile test depends on various factors. One can easily collect their myeloma profile test report by visiting the lab or download their myeloma profile test report at home through the official website of Max Lab. Based on the results, the doctor will recommend treatment methods or any further tests.