What is tested in a blood chemistry test?
- blood urea nitrogen
- calcium
- albumin
Why is blood urea nitrogen tested?
Uncontrolled growth of plasma cells can cause large production of antibodies which can damage the kidneys
Why is albumin tested?
In myeloma, IL 6 is produced more which blocks albumin production
Why is calcium tested?
Bones are destructed in myeloma, so excess calcium is released into blood stream
Why is a serum electrophoresis test done?
Tests for M protein, which is an abnormal antibody present in myeloma
How does a serum electrophoresis done?
Separates proteins based on charge and size, highlighting monoclonal antibodies, M protein
What is the difference between a bone marrow biopsy and aspirate?
Biopsy - removed a small piece of marrow tissue
Aspirate - extracts bone marrow liquid
Why is a bone marrow aspiration done?
To check if blood cell counts are within normal range, and to check if cells have spread to bone
Why is a bone marrow biopsy done?
To see if cells in bone marrow are abnormal
Why is a flow cytometry test done?
To detect abnormal plasma cells: CD56, 38, 138
Why is LDH tested?
High enzyme levels indicate rapidly dividing myeloma cells
Why is beta 2 microglobulin tested?
A protein found in the blood, high levels indicate myeloma
What is usually found in an immunoglobulin test?
High levels of IgG and IgA
